Abstract:
This dissertation comprehensively evaluates the biomechanical consequences of ligamentous injuries in the human cervical spine through a combination of experimental and computational methodologies. Recognizing ligamentous structures as critical stabilizers of cervical vertebrae, injuries to these ligaments—common in trauma such as whiplash—can lead to spinal instability, increased range of motion (ROM), and potential neural tissue damage. Using advanced finite element (FE) modeling techniques, a detailed, validated computational model of the intact cervical spine (C0-C7) was developed from computed tomography (CT) scans of cadaveric specimens. This model was then adapted to simulate various partial and complete ligamentous injuries. Complementary experimental methods involved mechanical testing of cadaveric cervical spines and ligament samples under controlled loading conditions to determine injury-induced changes in stiffness, ROM, stresses, and strains. Key findings included precise quantification of biomechanical alterations resulting from specific ligament injuries at the C5-C6 vertebral level and the right alar ligament. The dissertation identifies unique kinematic signatures for individual ligament injuries, proposing improved diagnostic criteria based on biomechanical data. Ultimately, this integrated biomechanical approach advances the understanding of ligamentous injury consequences, improving clinical diagnosis accuracy and guiding effective therapeutic interventions for cervical spine injuries.
