Spinal stability as defined by the three-column spine concept

Abstract

The three-column spine concept is supported by anatomical data from dry European and African skeketons, by experiments on fresh cadaver spines without chemical fixation and by an extensive clinical and surgical experience. There exists an axial and a transverse stability. Axial stability is maintained along a vertical column system: this consists of two columns at the C1-C2 level and three columns from C2 to the sacrum. The anterior column is formed by the vertebral bodies and discs, and the two posterior columns by posterior joints. Transverse stability at the motion segment levels is produced by a coupling of bony buttresses and ligamentous brakes. The three-joint motion segment is characterized by a triangular disposition of joints with opposing joint spaces, thus supporting the articular orthogonal triangulation concept. These observations have a clinical relevance in the field of spinal growth, changes consequent upon wear in spinal joints and clinical instability.

Effectiveness of posterior tension band fixation in the thoracolumbar seat-belt type injuries of the young population

“…Surgical stabilization and fusion is the treatment of choice [23]. Decompression procedure is also generally performed.…”

Radiographic Parameters of Segmental Instability in Lumbar Spine Using Kinetic MRI

“…Disc herniation, lack of sports activities, and night work shifts are significant risk factors for the deterioration associated with disc degeneration 5) . The concept of segmental instability as a cause of back pain has been gradually accepted 6,15,17,18,20,21) . Disc degeneration can be the initial painful process associated with back pain 17) .…”

“…Lumbar segmental instability is thought to be a possible causative mechanism of underlying low back pain and sciatica 6,[15][16][17][18][20][21][22]25,28) . It is often an important factor in determining surgical indications for spinal fusion in lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD) 8,11,16,17,21,25) .…”

Papel del refuerzo vertebral mediante cifoplastia en el tratamiento de las fracturas dorsolumbares de índole no osteoporótico: Revisión del tema y análisis de 40 casos

“…Si además nos apoyamos en la teoría de las tres columnas 21,45 , podríamos considerar de forma genérica que una fractura confiere una deficiencia biomecánica (inestabilidad o pér-dida de la tensegridad) cuando se afectan dos columnas contiguas (con afección tanto de elementos óseos como ligamentarios), incluso sin compromiso neurológico.…”