Methodology for finite element analysis of vertebral column and pedicle screw system, which circumvents the tremendous difficulties in geometric, material, and structural modeling, is proposed. The simplification is focused on the modeling of the cancellous bone in vertebral body the intervertebral disc. and the instrumented internal fixation devices. Each proposed modeling technique is justified to result in reasonable accuracy. These methods are believed to be suitable for the development of pedicle screw systems, not only because modeling itself is much simpler. but also because reliable empirical data for disc stiffness may be incorporated with little additional effort, and presumably frequent design change may be easily reflected on the analysis.