Kinematics of the Lumbo–Pelvic Complex under Different Loading Conditions

Martin Weidling,Michael Werner,Christian Voigt,Christoph-E Heyde,Toni Wendler,Martin Heilemann,Jan-Sven Jarvers

doi:10.1515/cdbme-2019-0087

Abstract

Abstract The lumbo-pelvic complex is a highly complex structural system. The current investigation aims to identify the kinematics between interacting bone segments under different loading conditions. A specimen of the lumbo-pelvic complex was obtained from a human body donor and tested in a self-developed test rig. The experimental setup was designed to imitate extension, flexion, right and left lateral bending and axial rotation to the left and to the right, respectively. The vertebra L3 was firmly embedded and load was introduced via hip joints. Using a digital image correlation (DIC) system, the 3D motions of 15 markers at different landmarks were measured for each loadcase under cyclic loading. For each loadcase, the kinematics were analyzed in terms of three-dimensional relative movements between L3 and the sacrum. The usefulness of the experimental technique was demonstrated. It may serve for further biomechanical investigations of relative motion of sacroiliac and vertebral joints and deformation of bony structures.

Highlights

With growing numbers of elderly patients, the number of cases with degenerative diseases is increasing
To deepen our understanding how these components interact during load transfer, the current study aims for identification the kinematics of the interacting bone segments under different loading conditions
This requires the development of an experimental setup that can imitate near-realistic movements of the lumbo-pelvic complex while maintaining simple and well defined boundary conditions

Summary

Introduction

With growing numbers of elderly patients, the number of cases with degenerative diseases is increasing. Further improvement of implant fixation requires knowledge about the load transfer from the spine to the hip region, which is, a major field of biomechanical investigation. This requires the development of an experimental setup that can imitate near-realistic movements of the lumbo-pelvic complex while maintaining simple and well defined boundary conditions.

Results

Conclusion