A Primer on Anatomy, Biophysics, Pathology, Imaging and Treatment of the Intervertebral Disc and the Anterior Spinal Column: The Discogenic, Intervertebral, Spinal Column (DISC) ASPN Workgroup

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Objective As therapeutic options are rapidly expanding to treat pain of discogenic and vertebrogenic origin, it is important for the clinician to have an evidence-based understanding of the latest information regarding the normal and pathological anatomy of the intervertebral disc as well as imaging characteristics and treatment strategies. The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) commissioned the DISC project to inform and update the interventional spine community about anterior column pain syndromes. Methods Using established literature review methods a clinical oversight group was convened to create an outline covering topics that will be key to meeting the objectives delineated by the ASPN scientific and guidelines leadership. This oversight group, using the created outline, selected key opinion leaders and experts to assemble the latest information on anterior column and intervertebral disc anatomy and treatment to serve as a living document that can be continuously updated to drive best practices and innovation. Results A review of normal and pathological anatomy, a comprehensive understanding of biophysics applied to the anterior spinal column, and understanding of the current state of practice with regard to imaging, diagnostic classification systems and treatment.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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