A surgical technique of spinal cord cell transplantation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

J Neurosci Methods. 2010 Aug 30;191(2):255-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2010.06.014. Epub 2010 Jun 23.

Abstract

We report an original method for implanting bone marrow stem cells within the spinal cord parenchyma. This method was used for the experimental treatment of patients diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The methodology is reproducible and devoid of major complications even in patients showing significant spinal atrophy. Therefore, this report describes a surgical procedure that could be used in other experimental treatments involving the intraspinal delivery of stem cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / pathology
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / physiopathology
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / surgery*
  • Bone Marrow Transplantation / methods*
  • Bone Marrow Transplantation / pathology
  • Cell- and Tissue-Based Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods
  • Postoperative Complications / pathology
  • Postoperative Complications / physiopathology
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Recovery of Function / physiology
  • Spinal Cord / pathology
  • Spinal Cord / physiopathology
  • Spinal Cord / surgery*
  • Stem Cell Transplantation / methods*
  • Stereotaxic Techniques / instrumentation
  • Treatment Outcome