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Kinematic Demands Of Nucleus Arthroplasty Technology, Elizabeth J. Sander

Theses and Dissertations (ETD)

Recent advancements in biomaterial technologies have fostered growth in alternative surgical procedures to fusion surgery for treatment of early stages of degenerative disc disease. One application of immediate interest is that of nucleus arthroplasty (NA). Novel materials are being developed to better match the nonlinear biomechanical properties of the native tissue. The effects of changing the motion segment unit (MSU) properties via surgery (nucleotomy) or placement of a nucleus arthroplasty material, changes the effort or work required to move the altered spine condition through a prescribed kinematic path relative to the intact spine condition. The closer the loading mechanics of …