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Allografting intervertebral discs in dogs: a possible clinical application
H Matsuzaki1, K Wakabayashi, K Ishihara
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nihon University of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Spine
|January 15, 1996
Summary
Intervertebral disc allografting in dogs shows potential as a dynamic spacer. Freezing discs at -196°C preserved tissue, though cellular activity decreased, requiring further study for long-term efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Intervertebral disc degeneration is a common cause of low back pain.
- Limited research exists on intervertebral disc allografting, with no prior studies on cryopreservation at -196°C.
- This study investigates the impact of freezing at -80°C and -196°C on canine disc allografts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the clinical viability of intervertebral disc allografting.
- To evaluate the effects of different cryopreservation temperatures on allografted discs.
- To determine the potential of allografted discs as a dynamic spacer for spinal fusion.
Main Methods:
- Experimental allografting of canine intervertebral discs, preserving vertebral segments.
- Cryopreservation of allografts at -80°C or -196°C after dimethyl sulfoxide treatment.
- Peritoneal transplantation into recipient lumbar vertebrae, fixation with plates/screws, and serial radiographic and histological analysis.
Main Results:
- Complete bone union of vertebral bodies observed by 5 months post-transplantation.
- Gradual intervertebral space narrowing initiated at 6 months.
- Histology showed well-preserved anulus fibrosus, particularly in discs stored at -196°C, but diminished cellular synthetic activity.
Conclusions:
- Canine intervertebral disc allografts demonstrate potential as dynamic disc spacers.
- Cryopreservation at -196°C appears to preserve disc structure effectively.
- Further research is necessary to establish the long-term benefits and drawbacks of this allografting technique.