2018 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting-Regenerative and Reconstructive Approaches to the Lumbar Disc

Regenerative and Reconstructive Approaches to the Lumbar Disc

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Claudius Tomei discusses regeneration and reconstructive approaches to the lumbar disc. He starts by explaining that disc degeneration occurs over time and is characterized by the dehydration of the disc due to the loss of proteoglycans and cells. He notes that disc degeneration can cause pain and loss of disc height, which puts more pressure on the facet joints in the back, leading to more problems. Tomei mentions that current surgical treatments, such as microdiscectomy, can lead to disc degeneration and reoperation rates are high for disc surgery patients. He explores potential solutions, including nucleus augmentation and cell therapy, but highlights the challenges of the hostile disc environment and annular competence. Tomei discusses ongoing studies on autologous chondrocyte transplantation and gene therapy techniques. He also mentions the use of annular closure devices to reduce reherniation rates, although there are concerns about end-plate changes. Tomei concludes by stating that a biological solution is likely needed for long-term disc regeneration.

Asset Caption

Claudius Thome, MD, IFAANS (Austria)

Keywords

regeneration

disc degeneration

cell therapy

annular closure devices

biological solution