Role of the biomechanical property of the endplate in anterior cervical fusion

doi:10.3321/j.issn:1673-4254.2003.05.003

Abstract：Objectives To study the distribution of the biomechanical properties in the cervical vertebrae with or without theendplate, so as to evaluate the importance of the endplate in cervical anterior fusion. Methods Indentation tests were performedat 20 standardized testing points chosen on each surface of the endplate with the impact adjusted perpendicular to the endplatesurface using a hemispherical indenter 2 mm in diameter. The failure load and rigidity at each test site were determined bomthe load-displacement curves. Independent sample t test and factorial analyses were used to analyze the results. Results Oneither superior or inferior endplate surface, both the failure load and rigidity differed significantly between the endplate-intactand endplate-removed groups (P＜0.001). The posterior region of the superior endplate and the lateral regions of the inferiorendplate were stronger and more rigid than any other region across the endplate surface in the endplate-intact group, while forenplate-removed group, the posterior region of the superior endplate and the posterolateral regions of the inferior endplatewere the stronger and more rigid. Conclusions The endplate plays an important role in deciding the success of anterior cervicalfusion, and due attention should be paid to the endplate in the intervertebral implant device designing and the surgical approach modification.