Cracks in the degenerating disc: Microscopic observation and partition of unity finite element simulation

F. Kraaijeveld, J. M. Huyghe, R. Dittmar, J. J.C. Remmers, K. Ito, R. De Borst

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Degeneration of the intervertebral disc is associated with back pain, herniation and absenteeism. Progressive crack development and decreasing swelling pressure are some of the mayor changes observed in the degenerating disc. Understanding and prediction of the mechanisms involved is necessary to develop methods for prevention and treatment. In order to understand the mechanism underlying the crack propagation in the degenerating disc, (1) a crack is observed directly in bovine disc samples under two photon microscopy and (2) the phenomenon of crack propagation is simulated in a small deformation equivalent of a swelling FE poromechanical model. The results demonstrate the potential of crack propagation in the degenerating disc.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPoromechanics IV - 4th Biot Conference on Poromechanics
EditorsHoe I. Ling, Andrew Smyth, Raimondo Betti
PublisherDEStech Publications
Pages89-93
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)9781605950068
Publication statusPublished - 2009
Event4th Biot Conference on Poromechanics - New York, United States
Duration: 8 Jun 200910 Jun 2009

Publication series

NamePoromechanics IV - 4th Biot Conference on Poromechanics

Conference

Conference4th Biot Conference on Poromechanics
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityNew York
Period8/06/0910/06/09

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Cracks in the degenerating disc: Microscopic observation and partition of unity finite element simulation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this