Assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration based on quantitative magnetic resonance imaging analysis: an in vivo study.

Study Design: Animal experimental study.

Objective: To evaluate a novel quantitative imaging technique for assessing disc degeneration.

Summary Of Background Data: T2-relaxation time (T2-RT) measurements have been used to assess disc degeneration quanti-tatively.

Annular repair using high-density collagen gel: a rat-tail in vivo model.

Study Design: Animal in vivo study.

Objective: To test the capability of high-density collagen gel to repair annular defects.

Summary Of Background Data: Annular defects are associated with spontaneous disc herniations and disc degeneration, which can lead to significant morbidity.