Biomechanical role of the posterior elements, costovertebral joints, and rib cage in the stability of the thoracic spine

Abstract

Study design: This is a biomechanical study of the thoracic spine. Various ligaments and joints were resected sequentially and nondestructive cyclic loading tests were performed. Effects of each resection were analyzed biomechanically.

Objectives: To investigate the role of the posterior elements, costovertebral joints, and rib cage in the stability of the thoracic spine.

Summary of background data: There have been no experimental studies concerning the mechanical interaction between the thoracic spine and rib cage.

Methods: Eight canine rib cage-thoracic spine complexes, consisting of the sixth to eighth ribs, sternum, and T5-T9 vertebrae, were used. Six pure moments along three axes were applied to the specimens, and angular deformation of T6-T7 was recorded. After testing the intact specimen, resection of the stabilizers was conducted incrementally in the following manner: 1) removal of the posterior elements at T6-T7, 2) resection of the bilateral seventh costovertebral joints, and finally, 3) destruction of the rib cage. The same loading tests were repeated at each stage. The ranges of motion and neutral zones were calculated by digitization.

Results: A large increase in the range of motion in flexion-extension was observed after resection of the posterior elements and in lateral bending and axial rotation after resection of the costovertebral joints. A significant increase in the neutral zone in lateral bending and axial rotation was observed after bilateral resection of the costovertebral joints and destruction of the rib cage.

Conclusions: The costovertebral joints and rib cage play an important role in providing stability to the thoracic spine. The state of the costovertebral joints and rib cage should be assessed to evaluate the stability of the thoracic spine.