Feasibility of extracting tissue material properties via cohesive elements: a finite element approach to probe insertion procedures in non-invasive spine surgeries

Modeling the mechanical behavior of soft tissue probe insertion remains a challenging endeavor due to involved interdependent phenomena comprising nonlinear deformation, contact between and tissue, crack propagation, viscoelastic effects. To that matter, cohesive elements allow simulating formation which provides promising path modeling in tissues. As such, aim present study was investigate feasibility devising integrating an algorithm finite element (FE) case efforts reverse engineering material properties non-homogeneous A layered model with zone created commercial software ABAQUS. Material were iteratively modified via hybrid gradient descent optimization algorithm: minimizing resultant error first find optimum Ogden’s hyperelastic parameters, followed by obtaining damage parameters. Perceived then compared those obtained experimental human cadaver testing. Under investigated four-layered muscle model, numerical results overlapped, great extent, six different force-insertion profiles average $$\pm$$ ± 15%. The best profile fit realized when highest sudden force drop less than 60% peak force. Lastly, FE analysis revealed increase stiffness as advanced inside tissue. demonstrated its capability engineer parameters required for real, non-homogeneous, significance this procedure lies within ability extract real time, little no intervention or invasive tests. This could potentially further serve database layers profiles, used surgeon physician clinical training purposes. Graphical abstract