Finite element analysis of fixation of U-shaped sacral fractures

Abstract

Finite element method (FEM) was used to investigate the biomechanical properties of three types of surgical fixations of U-shaped sacral fractures. Based on a previously established and validated complete lumbar-pelvic model, three models of surgical fixations of U-shaped sacral fractures were established: ① S1S2 passed through screw (S1S2), ② L4-L5 pedicle screw + screw for wing of ilium (L4L5 + IS), and ③ L4-L5 pedicle screw + S1 passed through screw + screw for wing of ilium (L4L5 + S1 + IS). A 400 N force acting vertically downward, along with torque of 7.5 N·m in different directions (anterior flexion, posterior extension, axial rotation, and axial lateral bending), was exerted on the upper surface of L4. Comparisons were made on differences in separation of the fracture gap and maximum stress in sitting and standing positions among three fixation methods. This study showed that: for values of separation of the fracture gap produced by different operation groups in different positions, L4L5 + S1 + IS was far less than L4L5 + IS and S1S2. For internal fixators, the maximum stress value produced was: L4L5 + IS > L4L5 + S1 + IS > S1S2. For the intervertebral disc, the maximum stress value produced by S1S2 is much larger than that of L4L5 + S1 + IS and L4L5 + IS. In a comprehensive consideration, L4L5 + S1 + IS could be prioritized for fixation of U-shaped sacral fractures. The objective of this research is to compare the biomechanical differences of three different internal fixation methods for U-shaped sacral fractures, for the reference of clinical operation.