European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
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To investigate the suitability of the transpedicular approach (TPA) in a sheep model of IVD regenerative strategies METHODS: 24 IVD from four sheep were used. TPA and biopsies of the Nucleus pulposus (NP) were performed in 18 IVD (6 IVD control). Seven discographies were performed to assess the feasibility of injecting contrast agent. MRI, micro-CT scan, and histological analyses were performed and the accuracy of the TPA was evaluated. The effects on the vertebra and endplates were analyzed. ⋯ TPA induces damage to the endplates, and it may lead to neurological impairment and leakage of injected materials into the systemic circulation. These adverse effects must be fully considered before proceeding with TPA for IVD regenerative strategies.
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The primary goal of this study is to clearly define and evaluate new intervertebral disc height parameters in analysing the morphological pathology of disc degeneration for application in damage model and regeneration therapy development, as well as applying traditional variables to 3-D characterization methods. ⋯ Two-dimensional morphological evaluations can be applied in 3-D to provide a more complete picture of disc height loss for injury models. New 3-D parameters that are tailored to the type of surgical approach used should be investigated, with the 9-point system described herein providing a useful basis for derived values. Additionally, the surgical approach chosen when artificially injuring the disc can result in asymmetrical degeneration, as indicated by uneven disc height loss.
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To evaluate the association in ASD patients between spinopelvic sagittal parameters and health-related quality of life (HRQL), adjusted for demographic and surgical variables. ⋯ Pre-operatively, the impact of sagittal parameters on HRQL was not as strong as reported in the previous studies that used univariate analysis. Not only sagittal parameters, but also the pre-operative patient's general condition should be carefully reviewed when considering indication for ASD surgery. In contrast, although this is a short-term follow-up study, PostOp HRQL was significantly associated with sagittal parameters. When ASD surgery has been indicated, restoration of spinal sagittal alignment is certainly important for PostOp HRQL.