A Finite Element Analysis of the C2-C7 Sheep Spine

Due to the limited availability of human cadaveric specimens, sheep are often utilized for in vitro studies of various spinal disorders and surgical techniques. Understanding the similarities and differences between the human and sheep spine is crucial for constructing a valuable study and interpreting the results. Several studies have identified the anatomical similarities between the sheep and human spine; however these studies have been limited to quantifying the anatomic dimensions as opposed to the biomechanical responses [1–2]. Although anatomical similarities are important, biomechanical correspondence is imperative for studying the effects of disorders, surgical techniques, and implant designs. Studies by Wilke and colleagues [3] and Clarke et al. [4] have focused on experimental biomechanics of the sheep cervical functional spinal units (FSUs).