The biomechanical effect of preexisting different types of disc herniation in cervical hyperextension injury

This study uses computer modeling to understand how different types of disc herniations in the neck can affect the spinal cord during a hyperextension injury (when the neck is bent backward). The goal is to see how these pre-existing conditions might make the spinal cord more vulnerable to compression and damage. Researchers created a 3D model of the cervical spinal cord and simulated different types of disc herniations (local vs. diffuse, median vs. lateral) and varying degrees of spinal cord compression. They then analyzed the stress levels in different parts of the spinal cord under neutral and hyperextension positions. The study found that hyperextension significantly increases stress on the spinal cord, especially when there's a pre-existing disc herniation. Diffuse-type herniations, particularly those in the median position, may lead to greater compression and stress concentration in areas of the spinal cord that can cause acute central cord syndrome.

• 1
  Hyperextension of the cervical spine significantly increases stress on the spinal cord compared to a neutral position, especially in the presence of pre-existing disc herniation.
• 2
  Diffuse-type disc herniations, particularly those in the median position, may lead to more severe compression and higher stress concentrations within the spinal cord.
• 3
  Diffuse-type median herniations (DTMH) may cause more severe compression with higher von Mises stresses concentrated at the anterior horn and the peripheral white matter, potentially resulting in acute central cord syndrome.