Biomechanical Flexibility Testing of an in Situ-Cured Silicone-Based Disc Nucleus Prosthesis

A new intervertebral disc nucleus replacement device having three major features has been designed, comprising: 1) a  peripheral textile band, 2) a silicone membrane filled with silicone that cures in situ forming an elastomeric implant and 3) an internal chamber that allows for deformation of the cured component (Figure 1). Samples of this device were subjected to biomechanical flexibility testing to determine the impact of device implantation on functional spinal unit (FSU) range of motion (ROM).