RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Pathomechanism and Biomechanics of Degenerative Disc Disease: Features of Healthy and Degenerated Discs
JF International Journal of Spine Surgery
JO Int J Spine Surg
FD International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery
SP 10
OP 25
DO 10.14444/8052
VO 15
IS s1
A1 Kirnaz, Sertac
A1 Capadona, Charisse
A1 Lintz, Marianne
A1 Kim, Byumsu
A1 Yerden, Rachel
A1 Goldberg, Jacob L.
A1 Medary, Branden
A1 Sommer, Fabian
A1 McGrath, Lynn B.
A1 Bonassar, Lawrence J.
A1 Härtl, Roger
YR 2021
UL https://www.ijssurgery.com/content/15/s1/10.abstract
AB The human intervertebral disc (IVD) is a complex organ composed of fibrous and cartilaginous connective tissues, and it serves as a boundary between 2 adjacent vertebrae. It provides a limited range of motion in the torso as well as stability during axial compression, rotation, and bending. Adult IVDs have poor innate healing potential due to low vascularity and cellularity. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) generally arises from the disruption of the homeostasis maintained by the structures of the IVD, and genetic and environmental factors can accelerate the progression of the disease. Impaired cell metabolism due to pH alteration and poor nutrition may lead to autophagy and disruption of the homeostasis within the IVD and thus plays a key role in DDD etiology. To develop regenerative therapies for degenerated discs, future studies must aim to restore both anatomical and biomechanical properties of the IVDs. The objective of this review is to give a detailed overview about anatomical, radiological, and biomechanical features of the IVDs as well as discuss the structural and functional changes that occur during the degeneration process.