subject: The Latest Scientific Research Join Adult Stem Cells And Neck Surgery [print this page] Experts report that there are millions of people living in America who suffer from illnesses of the spine. Traditional forms of medical care have included fusing the damaged areas of the spinal bones. This is highly recommended when vertebrae in the neck compress together to pinch nerves and cause pain in other areas of the body. Neurosurgeons have been conducting research that combines adult stem cells and neck surgery into a new way to approach this common problem.
Removing discs in the spine can help to lessen pain caused when the internal structures rub together and put pressure on the delicate nerves that wind in and out of the backbone. Surgeons now believe that they can use stem cells gathered from patient bone marrow to help build new bones. Studies are conducted where the patient donates each cell that will be used in the attempt to repair the spinal problems.
The researchers gathered stem cells from each patient's marrow to add during spinal surgery. Early attempts have shown improved healing and bone regeneration at the surgical sites. Many experts consider this to be a type of cloning, but for therapeutic use. Past attempts to regrow bone tissue were insignificant compared to these recent studies. Advances in technology have pointed the way toward using marrow-generated cells to be used to help stimulate new bone tissue growth.
Because adult patients are their own bone marrow donors, the obvious referral to cloning is easy to understand. Surgery candidates have been harvesting their own blood to bank for years. But the difference here is that using original cellular substances to grown new bone structures is a very advanced process. These are positive steps to facilitate better recovery and healing after what has traditionally been painful and difficult surgery.
Part of the conversations over this new procedure is that is brings up controversial opinions concerning recent stem cell use from harvested umbilical cords. But the new possibilities for reducing pain and improving recovery for patients is a goal that outweighs much of the negative discussions. Degenerative diseases of the spine may become much easier to deal with when using each patient's specialized cellular materials.
Associate professors Kee Kim and Rudolph Schrot, both neurosurgeons with U. C. David Health System, are credited with performing the landmark work. Their achievement was part of a systematic research process conducted at sites throughout the organization. Focusing on cervical discs, they surgically introduced the cellular material to stimulate better bone tissue regeneration in the hopes that the areas where the damaged discs were removed would heal better.
Much Internet discussion has been posted in scientific forums concerning this breakthrough in technique. Experts in the field are discussing the ethical and moral issues relating to use of any kind of cellular materials harvested specifically for regenerative use. Much interest has been indicated in developing additional applications for harvested adult cells. Continued reflection on new possibilities engages professionals in the medical world.
As the medical researchers continue their work with adult stem cells and neck surgery, leaders in spinal procedures are working to apply these advances with their own patients. Many doctors hope to shorten healing time, reduce pain and improve tissue growth in their patients in similar ways. Many are hopeful that this new technology will allow them to alleviate suffering and improve life for those under their care.
