This article reviews the progress of biomechanical studies on anterior cervical fusion and nonfusion surgery in recent years. The similarities and differences between animal and human cervical spines as well as the major three biomechanical test methods are introduced. Major progresses of biomechanical evaluation in anterior cervical fusion and nonfusion devices, hybrid surgery, coupled motion and biomechanical parameters, such as the instant center of rotation, are classified and summarized. Future development of loading method, multilevel hybrid surgery and coupling character are also discussed.
Based on the application of finite element analysis in spine biomechanics, the research progress of finite element method applied in lumbar spine mechanics is reviewed and the prospect is forecasted. The related works, including lumbar ontology modeling, clinical application research, and occupational injury and protection, are summarized. The main research areas of finite element method are as follows: new accurate modeling process, the optimized simulation method, diversified clinical effect evaluation, and the clinical application of artificial lumbar disc. According to the recent research progress, the application prospects of finite element method, such as automation and individuation of modeling process, evaluation and analysis of new operation methods and simulation of mechanical damage and dynamic response, are discussed. The purpose of this paper is to provide the theoretical reference and practical guidance for the clinical lumbar problems by reviewing the application of finite element method in the field of the lumbar spine biomechanics.