Materials for the Spine: Anatomy, Problems, and Solutions

Materials, 2019 · DOI: 10.3390/ma12020253 · Published: January 14, 2019

Simple Explanation

This review article discusses the anatomy of the spine, focusing on the intervertebral discs, their function, and biological aspects. It addresses problems such as disc degeneration and herniation and explores potential solutions, including tissue engineering methods. The spine's primary function is to protect the spinal cord, support the body's weight, and allow for mobility. It is divided into cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx sections, each with distinct characteristics and functions. Current treatments for disc degeneration include both noninvasive methods like physical therapy and medication, and invasive methods like spinal fusion and total disc replacement. However, these treatments have limitations, prompting research into newer tissue engineering solutions.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Cadaveric human spines and animal models, various sample sizes specified in the text

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Intervertebral discs are complex structures comprised of the annulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus, and vertebral endplates, each contributing to the disc's structural and mechanical integrity.
2
Disc degeneration can result from factors like genetics, aging, and environmental influences, leading to conditions such as degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis.
3
Tissue engineering and regenerative strategies, including gene therapy, growth factors, and material scaffolds, are promising approaches for preventing or reversing disc degeneration.

Research Summary

The review provides a comprehensive overview of spinal anatomy, emphasizing the structure and function of intervertebral discs. It details how these discs, composed of the annulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus, and vertebral endplates, contribute to spinal stability and mobility. It addresses the significant problem of disc degeneration, influenced by genetics, aging, and environmental factors, leading to conditions like degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis. Current treatments, both invasive and non-invasive, are examined, highlighting their limitations. The paper explores the potential of tissue engineering and regenerative strategies as future solutions for disc degeneration. These include gene therapy, growth factors, and the use of biomaterial scaffolds, with or without cells, to repair or replace damaged discs.

Practical Implications

Improved Treatment Strategies

Highlights potential for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to offer more effective and long-lasting treatments for degenerative disc disease.

Targeted Therapies

Understanding the genetic and environmental factors influencing disc degeneration can lead to more targeted and personalized therapeutic interventions.

Future Research Directions

Emphasizes the need for continued research in biomaterials and scaffold fabrication techniques to regenerate functional intervertebral discs.

Study Limitations

1
Current tissue engineering scaffolds face challenges in scalability, tunability, and tissue integration.
2
Existing treatments for disc degeneration often only address symptoms rather than the underlying cause.
3
The translation of tissue engineering research to clinical applications remains a significant hurdle.

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