Easy-to-understand model of lumbar vertebrae with pathological conditions

Anatomically, the model shows the 5 lumbar vertebrae in the lower back as well as spinal nerves. Therefore, the model shows the two most important joint types in the spinal column, which are the symphyses (disci/band discs) between the vertebral bodies and the facet joints, which are sliding joints between the vertebrae's pivots. In addition, cartilage-covered joint surfaces are colored in a light blue color (at the facet joints).



Overall, the bone quality is very good, and from top to bottom (L1 "down to" L5), the model illustrates more and more severe degenerative changes in the vertebral bodies and discs:



Disc on top of L1 (upper lumbar vertebra): Nothing abnormal
L1: Nothing abnormal
Discus on top of L2: Protrusion is seen
L2: Incipient degenerative changes
Disc on top of L3: A median prolapse is seen
L3: Advanced degenerative changes
Disc on top of L4: A lateral prolapse to the right is seen
L4: Severe degenerative changes and narrowing of the left intervertebral foramen
Disc above L5: Extreme disc degeneration is seen
L5: Very severe degenerative changes and pressure on the spinal nerve on the left side

In terms of movement, this model is not flexible. It cannot be moved at all and therefore cannot be used to demonstrate the movements of the spine.



The model, on the other hand, can be completely disassembled into all its components (lumbar vertebrae, discs and nerves). In this way, all degenerative changes can be studied easily and conveniently.

Clinically speaking, the model has been developed to understand degenerative changes in vertebrae and discs. Furthermore, the model can be used to understand treatment options such as spondylosis and treatment of disc herniation with percutaneous endoscopic technique.



The model can also be used to understand many other disorders such as fractures, scoliosis, back pain, etc



NB: The model shows the degenerative changes in the lower back. In Denmark, acute back strain is the cause of most cases of lumbar disc prolapse (in the lower back), and therefore this type of prolapse occurs most frequently in younger people. Degenerative changes, on the other hand, are the cause of the vast majority of cases of cervical disc herniation (in the neck), and these occur most frequently in the elderly.