[en] Testing 98 motion segments we investigated the possibility of a prediction of the compressive strength of thoraco-lumbar vertebrae by QCT. The ultimate compressive strength can be predicted from the density of the trabecular bone and from the size of the endplates - both determined by QCT - with an error of 1 kN. The increase of compressive strength in cranio - caudal direction is calculated at approximately 0.3 kN per anatomical level. This variation is due to the increase of the endplate areas. (orig.)