EAGER: Developing Deformity-Specific Computational Models for Evaluating Novel Surgical Interventions for Treating Scoliosis in Pediatric Subjects

Drexel University, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

Spinal and rib cage deformities that result from scoliosis (curvature of the spine) in adolescents can have devastating consequences, including severe restrictions in mobility, pain, and problems with lung function. While spinal fusion surgery is the gold-standard for correcting scoliotic spine deformity, patient outcomes are generally poor as the fusion does not support the continued growth of the spine that is expected in this population. There is currently a lack of both adolescent cadaveric scoliotic spine specimens and computational models of the scoliotic spine, which severely limits the systematic engineering of improved surgical and device interventions for treating scoliosis. This project is developing and validating computer models of the adolescent, scoliotic spine and rib cage and then demonstrating the feasibility of such deformity-specific models in the medical device design process by optimizing novel spine deformity correction systems from Globus Medical, Inc. The scoliotic deformity-specific computer models will serve as predictive tools to reliably guide the design, placement, timing and method of surgical intervention. The modeling and simulation tools developed in this study will significantly reduce the time needed to design, test and implement investigational deformity correction devices, which will subsequently improve the quality of life for individuals with scoliosis. In addition to the research collaboration, this project is integrating undergraduate and graduate student training into the research project and providing them with opportunities for interaction and internships with a medical device company. This research project is pursuing three specific objectives to accomplish the overall goal of developing and validating a model of the adolescent, scoliotic spine. 1) This project is creating a finite element model template of the normal 10-year-old thoracolumbar spine (with pelvis) and rib cage and validating this model using in vitro kinematic data from biomechanical testing of adult cadaveric specimens. 2) The research team is developing a deformity-specific thoracolumbar spine (with pelvis) and rib cage finite element model for the Lenke 1AN curve type and validating this model using in vivo spine range of motion data previously collected from adolescents with scoliosis. 3) In collaboration with Globus Medical, Inc., the research team is conducting a feasibility study to apply the validated deformity-specific model for the design and placement optimizations of conventional scoliosis implants and a novel, growth-friendly spine deformity correction system. Upon completion of the proposed objectives, the foundation will be laid to effectively integrate medical image processing, computational modeling, and device design and testing for scoliosis treatment.