Journal of biomechanics
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Journal of biomechanics · Feb 2016
Biomechanical properties of lumbar endplates and their correlation with MRI findings of lumbar degeneration.
How stiffness and strength of the human lumbar endplate vary with location, spinal level, and its correlation with MRI findings of lumbar degeneration, has not been reported in detail. 27 lumbar spines (16 male, 11 female, 31-49yrs) were harvested from cadavers without history of lumbar lesion or trauma. Disc and endplate degeneration was evaluated from MRI. Micro-CT was used to evaluate endplate microstructure. ⋯ We conclude that endplate properties reflect compressive stresses within adjacent intervertebral discs. Weaker and softer endplates may indicate reduced mechanical loading in decompressed discs that are stress-shielded by the neural arch. Preoperative MRI evaluation of endplate integrity could reduce the risk of implant subsidence following inter-body fusion.