Are spinal biomechanics and aging major determinants of the proteoglycan metabolism of intervertebral disc cells?
The proteoglycans of the lumbosacral disc of adult animals turned over faster than proteoglycans of adjacent lumbar discs. The reduced proteoglycan content and ability to aggregate, particularly in the nucleus pulposus of lumbosacral discs, indicated that proteoglycan catabolism exceeded the rate of biosynthesis. These events in the lumbosacral disc are thought to be determined mechanically by its proximity to the sacrum.
Despite recent increases in workload, high volume specialist units can deliver an efficient and timely service with both good treatment outcomes and minimal impact upon elective surgical waiting lists and ICU provision.