Purpose To characterize in vivo the transpedicular approach (TA) as an alternative route to study intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration strategies in a sheep model. Methods 48 IVD of 12 sheep were used. TA was performed under fluoroscopy, followed by nucleotomy (2-mm shaver resector). A polyurethane scaffold was used to repair the end-plate. X-ray and MRI images were acquired pre-, intra- and post-operatively (1, 3, 6 months). Complications were recorded. Results TA was feasible in all animals; nucleus pulposus (NP) from L1 to L5 was accessible. Nucleotomy followed by end-plate repair was achieved. Loss of NP signal intensity was shown in MRI images of the nucleotomy group. Conclusions TA is feasible in vivo, repeatable after only a short learning period and safely performed without significant morbidity. This animal model allows the study of IVD degeneration physiopathology and investigation of IVD regeneration techniques in vivo. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013.

The transpedicular approach for the study of intervertebral disc regeneration strategies: In vivo characterization

Vadalà G.
;
D'Avella D.;Denaro V.
2013-01-01

Abstract

Purpose To characterize in vivo the transpedicular approach (TA) as an alternative route to study intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration strategies in a sheep model. Methods 48 IVD of 12 sheep were used. TA was performed under fluoroscopy, followed by nucleotomy (2-mm shaver resector). A polyurethane scaffold was used to repair the end-plate. X-ray and MRI images were acquired pre-, intra- and post-operatively (1, 3, 6 months). Complications were recorded. Results TA was feasible in all animals; nucleus pulposus (NP) from L1 to L5 was accessible. Nucleotomy followed by end-plate repair was achieved. Loss of NP signal intensity was shown in MRI images of the nucleotomy group. Conclusions TA is feasible in vivo, repeatable after only a short learning period and safely performed without significant morbidity. This animal model allows the study of IVD degeneration physiopathology and investigation of IVD regeneration techniques in vivo. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013.
2013
Animal models
Intervertebral disc degeneration
Intervertebral disc regeneration
Surgical technique
Transpedicular approach
Animals
Female
Fluoroscopy
Intervertebral Disc
Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Regeneration
Research Design
Sheep
Disease Models, Animal
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12610/67664
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