A Finite Element Based Comparative Study of Lumbosacral Pedicle Screw Fixation and Artificial Disc Replacement

The aim of this is to evaluate the biomechanical performance of double-level semi-rigid pedicle screw fixation and artificial intervertebral disc replacement in lumbar spine. Ti6Al4V and CFR-PEEK material are used for pedicle screw fixation and artificial disc replacement. In the present study, pedicle screw fixation and artificial intervertebral disc replacement are carried out between L3-L4-L5 regions under the application of moment 6,8,10 Nm and range of motion is compared during flexion, extension, and right-left lateral bending. Two level pedicle screw fusion and total disc replacement are developed in the L3-L4-L5 of the lumber spine vertebrae. Carbon fiber reinforced (CFR-PEEK) and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) are considered for the spinal fusion and the core part of the artificial disc respectively. Afterwards, applying the finite element analysis, it is detected that CFR-PEEK rod is able to increase range of motion at the implanted level in comparison to Ti6Al4V rod for both flexion-extension and lateral bending. In case of artificial intervertebral disc replacement hypermobility was observed. Hence, it is significant that rod material with CFR-PEEK is a better alternative for the treatment of degenerative diseases.