Mechanical properties of the human lumbar dura mater.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the transverse and longitudinal distensibility of the posterior human lumbar dura mater. Results are compared with previous literature on biomechanical property studies. Possible clinical implications were also examined. METHODS Samples of human dural sac were obtained from autopsy studies in three adult male cadavers. Dural sac samples were sectioned longitudinally to measure transverse and longitudinal distensibility, thickness and circumference. RESULTS It was recorded that the posterior lumbar dura mater was easily distensible only in the transverse direction. The longitudinal force required to distend and rupture the posterior lumbar dura mater samples is 3.5 to 6.7 times greater than the force to produce a transversal rupture. CONCLUSION Depending on the local cerebrospinal fluid pressure, the documented easier transverse distensibility of the posterior lumbar dura mater may allow greater contact of the lumbar dural sac with the wall of the lumbar vertebral canal. This fact may affect the diffusion of solutions introduced into epidural space.