Safety of autologous nucleus pulposus cell transplantation with fibrin glue following endoscopic discectomy in chronic low back pain: a preliminary phase I trial

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

• 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)

BACKGROUND: Intradiscal cell transplantation has been proposed as a minimally invasive therapeutic modality in chronic low back pain (CLBP) and may prevent future recurrence after surgical procedures. Since nucleus pulposus (NP) cells with the capability to synthesize appropriate extracellular matrix and withstand the pathological microenvironment of degenerative discs could be more practical in CLBP management. METHODS: five patients with CLBP were enrolled and underwent the intradiscal injection of autologous NP cells after endoscopic therapeutic discectomy. They were followed up for 24 months by the evaluation of clinical measurements and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). RESULTS: The primary outcome, safety assessment, was evaluated by recording any complications of surgery or NP cell transplantation during 24 months follow-up. Neither adverse events (AEs) nor serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported. Visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and MRI were assessed as secondary outcomes. Reduction of ODI and VAS scores in all five patients indicated improvement in CLBP. Moreover, a comparison of MRI findings between the baseline and endpoint demonstrated improvement in disc protrusion status, less bulging, and more hydration. CONCLUSIONS: According to these promising results and MRI findings after two years follow-up, intradiscal injection of NP cells

Evidence level

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

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