Spine
-
Biologic study on the effects of coculture of bovine articular chondrocytes transduced ex vivo with genes expressing bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) on nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. ⋯ Bovine NP cells are stimulated to produce proteoglycans and collagen when exposed to chondrocytes transduced with genes for various BMPs. If applied to the treatment of disc degeneration, this strategy could provide the disc with not only metabolically active chondrocytes but also promote matrix replenishment by stimulating native NP cells.
-
Comparative Study
Posterior vertebral column resection in fixed lumbosacral deformity.
Retrospective study. ⋯ PVCR is an effective procedure for the management of fixed lumbosacral deformity. It provides satisfactory correction and improved functional outcomes. However, it is a technically demanding and exhausting procedure with possible risks for complications.
-
Prospective consecutive series. ⋯ Even if the clinical expectations were met, some patients were still dissatisfied. Patients with spinal stenosis (Group 2) seem to have more unrealistic expectations than patients with disc herniation (Group 1).
-
Cadaveric motion segment experiment. ⋯ Two physical aspects of disc degeneration (dehydration and endplate disruption) cause marked segmental instability. Back pain associated with instability may be attributable to stress concentrations in degenerated discs.