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An ultrastructural study of recurrent disc herniation: a preliminary report
Spine
|September 1, 1982
Summary
Recurrent disc herniations show distinct cellular and matrix differences. Early recurrences involve active chondrocytes and dense matrix, while late ones feature less active cells and a mix of fibrocartilage and fibrous tissue.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Recurrent disc herniations pose a clinical challenge after initial treatment.
- Understanding the cellular and matrix composition of recurrent herniations is crucial for developing effective therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphological differences between early and late recurrent disc herniations.
- To elucidate the origin of newly formed disc tissue in recurrent herniations.
Main Methods:
- Light and electron microscopy were used to examine tissue samples.
- Morphological analysis of chondrocytes and intercellular matrix was performed.
Main Results:
- Early recurrent herniations displayed actively synthesizing chondrocytes and a matrix rich in collagen and matrix vesicles.
- Late recurrent herniations showed chondrocytes with limited endoplasmic reticulum and a matrix resembling fibrocartilage and fibrous connective tissue.
Conclusions:
- The newly formed tissue in early recurrent herniations likely originates from remnants of the original herniation.
- Late recurrent herniations appear to involve contributions from the annulus fibrosus and granulation tissue post-discectomy.