Abstract
In this study, a finite element model (FEM) of the human cervical spinal column was constructed in order to investigate the effects of material parameters on the deformation patterns of the cervical spinal cord during simulated hyperflexion, hyperextension, and axial compression. In the first instance, the results from a physical model study of similar injuries were simulated. This enabled validation of the spinal motions and spinal cord deformations. Subsequently, the effects of material parameters and constitutive models on the spinal cord deformations and stresses were investigated. (A)