Strength of implanted carbon fibers Studies of the lumbar spine in goats

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Abstract
The L3-4 supraspinous and interspinous ligaments in 10 goats were replaced with carbon fibers stabilized with silk-suture seizing. The implants were removed after 3 weeks in 5 animals and after 3 months in the other 5. The maximum traction strength of nonimplanted slings was 157±9 kg (M±SD). After implantation, the strength was reduced to 136 ± 17 kg, and after 3 months to 107 ± 9 kg. However, the maximum strength of the spinous processes was 71 ± 19 kg, which was less than the strength of 3-month implants. We concluded that the carbon fiber sling stabilized with silk sutures could be used for replacement of the interspinous ligament.