Abstract
The finite element method (FEM) represents a computer simulation method, originally used in civil engineering, which dates back to the early 1940s. Applications of FEM have also been used in numerous medical areas and in orthopedic surgery. Computing technology has improved over the years and as a result, more complex problems, such as those involving the spine, can be analyzed. The spine is a complex anatomical structure that maintains the erect posture and supports considerable loads. Applications of FEM in the spine have contributed to the understanding of bone biomechanics, both in healthy and abnormal conditions, such as scoliosis, fractures (trauma), degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis. However, since FEM is only a digital simulation of the real condition, it will never exactly simulate in vivo results. In particular, when it concerns biomechanics, there are many features that are difficult to represent in a FEM. More FEM studies and spine research are required in order to examine interpersonal spine stiffness, young spine biomechanics and model accuracy. In the future, patient-specific models will be used for better patient evaluations as well as for better pre- and inter-operative planning.
Highlights
The finite element method (FEM) represents a computer simulation method developed for solving problems in civil and aeronautical engineering [1,2]
FEM applications regarding the biomechanical analysis of scoliosis are categorized as follows: (i) studies that contribute to a better understanding of the adolescent idiopathic scoliosis etiology, (ii) studies improving brace management for moderate scoliosis cases, (iii) studies ameliorating surgical management regarding severe deformities due to scoliosis, and (iv) sensitivity analysis improving FEM’s precision
FEM models showed that vibration loading noticeably augments stresses and strains in intervertebral discs of the human spine when compared to equivalent static loading, which suggests that whole-body vibration (WBV) sets the lumbar spine at a greater risk of disc degeneration [39]
Summary
The finite element method (FEM) represents a computer simulation method developed for solving problems in civil and aeronautical engineering [1,2]. FEM has become a useful tool in orthopedic surgery, helping surgeons to better understand biomechanics in healthy and pathological conditions It has the additional benefit of prediction of the changes in mechanical stress distribution around the implanted areas, helping prevent future pathologies due to an incorrect implant position [4]. “spine” has increased five-fold from the 2000s through to 2020 The purpose of this literature overview is to emphasize FEM’s contribution to studying the biomechanics of the spine, as well as to present its various applications. We conducted a meticulous search for articles listed in the PubMed database, using mesh terms such as “finite element method or finite element analysis”, “application of FEM” and “spine”, with a cut-off date of July 2021. We discuss the objective weaknesses of FEM, as well as its future development and improvement
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