An apparatus for applying pure nonconstraining moments to spine segments in vitro

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Study Design. This article reports on the design and use of a new apparatus for creating and monitoring pure, relatively no neon straining moments to induce flexion/extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation In cadaveric spine segments of two or more vertebrae. Objective The apparatus was designed to take advantage of the precision and control available In a ser- vo-hydraulic testing frame to efficiently create arid monitor testing moments. Summary of Background Data. Other laboratories have reported methods of flexibility testing that also use cables and pulleys. However, instead of loading the cables and pulleys using a mechanical testing frame, previous systems have used pneumatic actuators or dead weights, Methods. Force from a uniaxial mechanical testing frame is converted to torque applied to the specimen through a system of cabres and pulleys. The cable orientation is monitored to ensura that pure moments arc created. Applied moments are recorded using one or two load cells. Results. Skeichcg of ths apparatus are presented and its operation Is described. Conclusion, Because the materials required to build this apparatus are Inexpensive and the equipment needed for Its operation is common in mechanical testing labs, this design may be useful for researchers interested in beginning in vitro spire flexibility testing with minimal expenditure. © 1995, Lippincott—Raven Publishers.

Keywords

Flexibility testing, Spinal segment, Test apparatus

Publication Date

1-1-1995

Publication Title

Spine

ISSN

03622436

E-ISSN

15281159

Volume

20

Issue

19

First Page

2097

Last Page

2100

PubMed ID

8588165

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1097/00007632-199510000-00005

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