Effects of Controlled Dynamic Disc Distraction on Degenerated Intervertebral Discs

• DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000150487.17562.b1
• Publication Date: 2005-01-11T09:01:09Z
• Authors: Markus Kroeber; Frank Unglaub; Thorsten Guehring; Andreas Nerlich; Tamer Hadi; Jeffrey Lotz; Claus Carstens
• Keywords: Intervertebral Disc; Degeneration (medical); Animal model; Intervertebral disk

In Brief Study Design. An in vivo study on the rabbit lumbar spine model. Objectives. Effects of temporary dynamic distraction intervertebral discs were studied model to characterize changes associated with disc and evaluate feasibility previously compressed order stimulate regeneration. Summary Background Data. Studies have shown that accelerated degeneration results from altered mechanical loading conditions. The development methods for prevention restoration tissue has already degenerated are needed. Methods. New Zealand white rabbits (n = 32) used this study. randomly assigned one five groups. 12 animals, first loaded 28 days using a custom-made external device degeneration. After time, six animals distracted 7 same device, however, modified as device. without previous loading; afterwards removed recovery distraction. Six sham operated. was situated; remained undistracted they also served controls. 56 killed harvested examination. Disc height, morphology, cell viability, relative neutral zone, tangent modulus measured. Results. loading, demonstrated significant decrease space. Histologically, disorganization architecture anulus occurred. number dead cells increased significantly cartilage endplate. These re-versible after thickness compared specimens group showed signs regeneration decreased comparison flexibility higher than compressed/distracted discs. Conclusions. suggest can be induced by axial disc. decompressed biologic, cellular, biomechanical level A total 32 effects