Computational Biomechanical Modeling of Scoliotic Spine: Challenges and Opportunities

Spine Deform. 2013 Nov;1(6):401-411. doi: 10.1016/j.jspd.2013.07.009. Epub 2013 Nov 21.

Abstract

Background: Biomechanical computer models of the spine have important roles in the treatment and correction of scoliosis by providing predictive information for surgeons and other clinicians.

Objectives: This article reviews computational models of intact and scoliotic spine and its components; vertebra, intervertebral disc, ligament, facet joints, and muscle. Several spine models, developed using multi-body modelling and finite element modelling schemes, and their pros and cons are discussed.

Conclusions: The review reveals that scoliosis modelling is performed for 3 main applications: 1) brace simulation; 2) analysis of surgical correction technique; and 3) patient positioning before surgical instrumentation. The models provide predictive information for a priori choice of brace configurations and mechanically effective surgical correction techniques and the expected degree of correction. However, they have many shortcomings: for instance, they do not fully reproduce the active behaviour of the spine and the models' properties are not personalized.

Keywords: Finite element modeling; Multi-body modeling; Scoliosis; Scoliotic spine.