The Future of Spinal Arthroplasty: A Biomaterial Perspective

[Harrison]

This is an excellent overview of the materials used in arthroplasty. It includes insights into the biomaterials, coatings and even the body's immune response to them. Thanks, Trace, for passing it along.

Here's the the intro and link to Medscape. If you've not registered, it's free to access the full article.
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The Future of Spinal Arthroplasty: A Biomaterial Perspective

Rod J. Oskouian, M.D.; Richard Whitehill, M.D.; Amir Samii, M.D.; Mark E. Shaffrey, M.D.; J. Patrick Johnson, M.D.; Christopher I. Shaffrey, M.D.

Neurosurg Focus 17(3), 2004. � 2004 American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Posted 09/30/2004

Both total hip and knee arthroplasty have demonstrated outstanding clinical results. The functional spinal unit composed of the intervertebral disc and facet joints is at least as complex. The intricacies of the coupled motions of the functional spinal unit have made development of an artificial disc a challenge. There have been several failed attempts to create a disc replacement that recapitulates normal motion while providing significant longevity and a low incidence of complications.

Better understanding of the biomechanics of the intervertebral disc complex and improvements in implant material have made successful intervertebral disc replacement a likely reality, now that several artificial discs have completed Food and Drug Administration clinical trials. In this manuscript the authors detail the biomaterials used in disc arthroplasty and discuss joint wear and the host response to wear debris.

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/489859_print

You're welcome, Harrison--I can finally access the site after about two weeks, so I'm off to surf while I've caught the wave

BTW: It might be worth registering on this site, because a keyword search immediately brings up a lot of interesting and targeted articles.

Trace

[hucky]

Thanks for a great site Trace.

I've been busy searching for anything on stem cell disc repair.

Hucky