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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Review Meta Analysis
New evidence on the controversy over the correlation between vertebral osteoporosis and intervertebral disc degeneration: a systematic review of relevant animal studies.
The effect of vertebral osteoporosis on disc degeneration remains controversial. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant animal studies to shed more light on the effects and mechanisms of vertebral osteoporosis on disc degeneration and to promote the resolution of the controversy. ⋯ Our study shows that vertebral osteoporosis may exacerbate disc degeneration. Abnormal bone remodeling caused by vertebral osteoporosis disrupts the structural integrity of the endplate, leading to impaired nutrient supply to the disc, increased expression of catabolic factors, and decreased levels of type II collagen and aggrecan may be one of the potential mechanisms.
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To describe the physiology of spinal growth in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). ⋯ Increased spinal elongation and reduced ligamental growth result in differential strain and a vicious circle of scoliotic deformation. Recognising the physical and biological cues that contribute to differential growth allows earlier diagnosis of AIS and prevention in children at risk.