GCSP research stipend | Spring 2018

Measuring Failure Load of Lumbar Spinous Processes to Transverse Mechanical Forces

This study will examine the yield strength of the lumbar spinous processes to mechanical forces applied in a transverse direction. Such forces will be generated clinically by neurosurgeons using a novel surgical device interacting with the processes. Understanding the forces tolerated by spinous processes is important to avoid device failure caused by process fracturing. The current objectives include determining the mean yield strength of each lumbar spinous process (L1-L5) to a 1D transverse force, as well as the optimal length of the device handle to minimize the applied force. Future work may study the effects of forces in 2+ dimensions.