Fabrication of 3D Medical Model Build from Computed Tomography Images with the Aid of Rapid Prototyping Technique and Finite Element Analysis of L3-L4 Lumbar Model to Enhanced Intervertebral Disc Fusion

The purpose of this study was to make clear the mechanical behavior of human lumbar vertebrae (L3/L4) with and without fusion bone under physiological axial compression. The author has developed the program code to build the patient specific three-dimensional geometric model from the computed tomography (CT) images. The developed three-dimensional model provides the necessary information to the physicians and surgeons to visually interact with the model and if needed, plan the way of surgery in advance. Moreover the processed data of the model was versatile and compatible with the commercial computer aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA) software and rapid prototyping technology. The patient specific data of L3/L4 vertebrae was analyzed under compressive loading condition by the FEA approach. By varying the spacer position and fusion bone with and without pedicle instrumentation, simulations were carried out to find the increasing axial stiffness so as to ensure the success of fusion technique. The finding was helpful in positioning the fusion bone graft. The procedure adopted in this research paper if followed, the patient specific data can be analyzed to predict the mechanical stress and deformation of body organ indicating the critical section in advance. Hence, proper prevention and precaution can be suggested using this information before and after the surgery. The actual physical model was manufactured using rapid prototyping technique to confirm the executable competence of the processed data from the developed program code.