Pluripotent Stem Cells (recently called "Biology's New Supermodel) have have been my favorite "Biological Subject" since the days of my pre-med biology classes. The most exciting thing to me is how we continue to learn more and more about their therapeutic usage as researchers and clinicians are implementing regenerative medicine procedures in their efforts to "heal and relieve" the causes of disease.
Outdated beliefs are now being challenged and overturned with the advent of "regenerative medicine", and the utilization of our own stem cells, ASC's (Adult Stem Cells) to stimulate regeneration and repair of damaged tissue. Here is a brief overview of one recent study that documents what some of my colleagues have known for years, that spinal discs can be regenerated through the activity of stem cells.
Disc Regeneration Therapy using Marrow Mesenchymal Cell Transplantation: A Report of Two Case Studies
Abstract
Study Design. Marrow mesenchymal cells (MSCs) contain stem cells and possess the ability to regenerate bone, cartilage, and fibrous tissues. Here, we applied this regenerative ability to intervertebral disc regeneration therapy in an attempt to develop a new spinal surgery technique.
Objective. We analyzed the regenerative restoration ability of autologous MSCs in the markedly degenerated intervertebral discs.
Summary of Background Data. Fusion for lumbar intervertebral disc instability improves lumbago. However, fused intervertebral discs lack the natural and physiologic functions of intervertebral discs. If intervertebral discs can be regenerated and repaired, then damage to adjacent intervertebral discs can be avoided. We verified the regenerative ability of MSCs by animal studies, and for the first time, performed therapeutic intervertebral disc regeneration therapy in patients and obtained favorable findings.
Methods. Subjects were 2 women aged 70 and 67 years; both patients had lumbago, leg pain, and numbness. Myelography and magnetic resonance imaging showed lumbar spinal canal stenosis, and radiograph confirmed the vacuum phenomenon with instability. From the ilium of each patient, marrow fluid was collected, and MSCs were cultured using the medium containing autogenous serum. In surgery, fenestration was performed on the stenosed spinal canal and then pieces of collagen sponge containing autologous MSCs were grafted percutaneously to degenerated intervertebral discs.
Results. At 2 years after surgery, radiograph and computed tomography showed improvements in the vacuum phenomenon in both patients. On T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, signal intensity of intervertebral discs with cell grafts was high, thus indicating high moisture contents. . . lumbar disc instability improved. Symptoms wer alleviated in both patients.
Conclusion. The intervertebral disc regeneration therapy using MSC brought about favorable results in these 2 cases. It seems to be a promising minimally invasive treatment. (End of Abstract)
Fibroblasts (Connective Tissue Repair Cells)
". . . Seems to be a promising minimally invasive treatment" INDEED! How about the possibility that Regenerative Medicine, Utilizing Stem Cell Transplantation, is likely to become the Most Important Advancement Ever Seen In Modern Medicine! Most medical researchers and physicians agree that the regenerative medicine approach will become the treatment mode of choice for traumatic or degenerative conditions, with multiple extended applications for curing even hereditary disorders as well. Yet, stem Cell transplantation is only one aspect of regenerative medicine. There are many applications of this emerging branch of medicine ranging from genetic engineering to photomedicine.
In addition to my ongoing research and building relationships with a network of cellular based regenerative medicine professionals around the world, our own complimentary alternative medicine (CAM) procedures often focus on the body's ability to heal itself from within. With our advanced technologies here at the South Coast Spine Center of San Diego, we are priviliged to utilize non-invasive forms of "regenerative medicine" procedures for our patients every day. This is great news for those patients seeking healing alternatives to drugs, needle injections, and surgery.
If you or someone you know are seeking a non-invasive, non-surgical, regenerative medicine approach to resolving disc related lower back or neck pain once and for all, simply contact our offices at: 619-472-2225 and ask about our complimentary "Discovery Visit". You may finally discover the answers you've been looking for!
Yours in excellent health, . . . through regenerative healing,
Dr. Bruce Bell, D.C., Q.M.E., Clinic Director, South Coast Spine Center
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