Phase 1 evaluation of an elastomeric nucleus pulposus device as an option to augment disc at microdiscectomy: Experimental results from biomechanical and biocompatibility testing and first in human.

Objective: Whilst microdiscectomy is an excellent reliever of pain for recalcitrant lumbar disc herniation (LDH), it has a high failure rate over time due to the ensuing reduction in mechanical stabilization and support of the spine. One option is to clear the disc and replace it with a nonhygroscopic elastomer. Here, we present the evaluation of biomechanical and biological behavior of a novel elastomeric nucleus device (Kunovus disc device [KDD]), consisting of a silicone jacket and a two-part in situ curing silicone polymer filler.

The association between low virulence organisms in different locations and intervertebral disc structural failure: A meta-analysis and systematic review.

Many factors may trigger intervertebral disc (IVD) structural failure (intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and endplate changes), including inflammation, infection, dysbiosis, and the downstream effects of chemical factors. Of these, microbial diversity in the IVD and elsewhere in the body has been considered as one of the potential reasons for disc structural failure. The exact relationships between microbial colonization and IVD structural failure are not well understood.

Measuring compressive loads on a 'smart' lumbar interbody fusion cage: Proof of concept.

There are several complications associated with lumbar interbody fusion surgery however, pseudarthrosis (non-union) presents a multifaceted challenge in the postoperative management of the patient. Rates of pseudarthrosis range from 3 to 20 % in patients with healthy bone and 20 to 30 % in patients with osteoporosis. The current methods in post-operative follow-up - radiographs and CT, have high false positive rates and poor agreement between them.

Complication rates of different discectomy techniques for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Purpose: This meta-analysis aims to compare the complication rates of discectomy/microdiscectomy (OD/MD), microendoscopic discectomy (MED), percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD), percutaneous laser disc decompression (PLDD), and tubular discectomy for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) using general classification and modified Clavien-Dindo classification (MCDC) schemes.

Methods: We searched three online databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies. Overall complication rates and complication rates per the above-mentioned classification schemes were considered as primary outcomes.

Smart orthopaedic implants: A targeted approach for continuous postoperative evaluation in the spine.

Real-time health monitoring systems are emerging in diverse medical fields, tracking biological and physiological signals for direct feedback to the user. Orthopaedics is yet to adapt to innovative trends in health monitoring. Despite an evident entry point during orthopaedic surgeries, clinicians remain unable to objectively examine the structural integrity and biomechanics in the operated region through implantable sensors.