Development of a Solid Model Based Method for Investigating Facet Articulation

Facets make up two of the three joints within the three joint complex found in any given FSU.[1] The methods currently discussed in the literature relevant to facet measurements have employed suboptimal methods of characterizing the facet and the effects from various treatments. A noncontacting, nondisruptive method of facet measurements is needed in order to fully understand the role of the intact facet joint. Articulation, characterized by facet proximity with facet joint capsules kept intact may be an important method in determining facet response.