Autologous Stem Cells in Cervical Spine Fusion

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Spinal Fusion

Background:

• Cervical spine fusion aims to alleviate pain and improve function by joining vertebrae.
• Autologous stem cells, particularly from bone marrow aspirate (BMA), are being explored as an alternative to traditional bone graft materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize evidence on the use of autologous stem cells from bone marrow aspirate (BMA) for cervical spine fusion.
• To compare the efficacy and safety of BMA with other graft materials in cervical fusion procedures.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov.
• Studies published up to October 31, 2018, and February 20, 2020, were included, focusing on comparisons of autologous cell sources for cervical spine fusion.

Main Results:

• Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, including two retrospective cohort studies and case series.
• No significant differences in functional improvement or symptom reduction were observed between BMA and control groups in cohort studies.
• While one study reported a statistically greater fusion rate with BMA, overall evidence quality was very low, and complications were poorly reported.

Conclusions:

• The current evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of autologous BMA for cervical arthrodesis is of very low quality.
• Firm conclusions cannot be drawn from the available data.
• Further high-quality research is necessary to establish the role of BMA in cervical spine fusion.