Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

610

Date

2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Biomedical Engineering

Committee Chair

Eugene C Eckstein

Committee Member

Gladius Lewis

Committee Member

Denis J DiAngelo

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was a biomechanical review of a new device, BTS (Bilateral Transarticular Spacer), to stabilize atlanto-axial motion. The biomechanical performance of the BTS and Harms techniques were compared using 6 cadaveric spines. The BTS was also designed to lessen the risks of damaging life sustaining nerves and arteries during placement at the atlanto-axial joint. Two hypotheses were postulated: 1.) The BTS will be able to stabilize the atlanto-axial joint after a type 2 odontoid fracture; and 2.) BTS will function biomechanically similar to the traditional Harms stabilization technique. In conclusion, the testing performed provided initial feasibility evidence that the new BTS device reduced atlanto-axial motion (P < 0.01) and provided stabilization similar to the Harms technique (p<0.01) with loads of 1.5 Nm in flexion-extension, axial rotation, and lateral bending.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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