MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR OF THE LAMELLAE ANNULUS FIBROSUS IN FINITE ELEMENT MODEL

The composite construction of annulus fibrous stems from the specific arrangement of collagen fibers in the individual lamellar. Structural differences in collagen fiber connections within a single lamellar of annulus fibrosus determine the nonlinear mechanical properties of the intervertebral disc. This structure of annulus fibrosus facilitates the transfer of loads acting on the spine while ensuring stiffness and strength in intervertebral disc. The aim of this study was to build numerical model of single lamellar annulus fibrosus on the basis of experimental research. In next stages, the information about the directional mechanical properties obtained from numerical simulations would allow explain the mechanism of damage in the intervertebral disc.