Pathomechanism and Biomechanics of Degenerative Disc Disease: Features of Healthy and Degenerated Discs.

Publication Type	Academic Article
Authors	Kirnaz S, Capadona C, Lintz M, Kim B, Yerden R, Goldberg J, Medary B, Sommer F, McGrath L, Bonassar L, Härtl R
Journal	Int J Spine Surg
Volume	15
Issue	s1
Pagination	10-25
Date Published	04/21/2021
ISSN	2211-4599
Abstract	The human intervertebral disc (IVD) is a complex organ composed of fibrous and cartilaginous connective tissues, and it serves as a boundary between 2 adjacent vertebrae. It provides a limited range of motion in the torso as well as stability during axial compression, rotation, and bending. Adult IVDs have poor innate healing potential due to low vascularity and cellularity. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) generally arises from the disruption of the homeostasis maintained by the structures of the IVD, and genetic and environmental factors can accelerate the progression of the disease. Impaired cell metabolism due to pH alteration and poor nutrition may lead to autophagy and disruption of the homeostasis within the IVD and thus plays a key role in DDD etiology. To develop regenerative therapies for degenerated discs, future studies must aim to restore both anatomical and biomechanical properties of the IVDs. The objective of this review is to give a detailed overview about anatomical, radiological, and biomechanical features of the IVDs as well as discuss the structural and functional changes that occur during the degeneration process.
DOI	10.14444/8052
PubMed ID	34376493
PubMed Central ID	PMC8092938