Current Therapy Strategies for Vertebral Endplates

Abstract

The vertebral endplate is a critical component of the intervertebral disc, and its dysfunction can lead to various spinal disorders and chronic back pain. The structure and function of the vertebral endplate play an important role in disc nutrition, biomechanical support, and waste removal. Endplate-related conditions and their respective pathophysiologies may play a role in painful degeneration, fractures, and Modic changes. This chapter summarizes current concepts of therapeutic strategies with an emphasis on regenerative medicine application. It discusses using mesenchymal stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, growth factors, and tissue engineering approaches for endplate regeneration and repair. Diagnostic strategies for assessing vertebral endplate disorders and palliative as well as regenerative treatment strategies are discussed. The current evidence, ongoing research, and prospects in endplate-based therapies are highlighted.

Keywords: Annulus fibrosus, Disc degeneration, Degenerative disc disease, Fusion, Herniation, Intervertebral disc, Nucleus pulposus, Spine.

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