The biology behind the human intervertebral disc and its endplates.

摘要: The intervertebral discs (IVDs) are roughly cylindrical, fibrocartilaginous, articulating structures connecting the vertebral bodies, and allowing movement in otherwise rigid anterior portion of column. They also transfer loads dissipate energy. Macroscopically disc can be divided into an outer annulus fibrosus surrounding a centrally located nucleus pulposus. endplates surround IVD from both cranial caudal ends, separate them bodies prevent highly hydrated pulposus bulging adjacent vertebrae. develop mesodermal notochord receive nutrients mostly through cartilaginous endplates. Physiologically they innervated only by sensory sympathetic perivascular nerve fibres, branches sinuvertebral nerve, ventral rami spinal nerves or grey communicantes. undergo changes with ageing degeneration, latter having two types i.e. “endplate-driven” involving endplate defects inward collapse “annulus-driven” radial fissure and/or prolapse. This review summarises updates current state knowledge on embryology, structure, biomechanics its To further translate this more clinical context demonstrates impact degeneration above properties