[The relationship between cartilage end-plate calcification and disc degeneration: an experimental study].

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between cartilage end-plate calcification and intervertebral disc degeneration.

METHODS

An experimental model of cervical disc degeneration in rabbits was established by resection of cervical supraspinous and interspinous ligaments and detachment of the posterior paravertebral muscles from cervical vertebrae. Mechanical instability in the cervical spine elicited by this surgical intervention accelerated the process of intervertebral disc degeneration. The degrees of intervertebral disc degeneration were graded morphologically. The thickness of the calcified layer and the uncalcified layer of the cartilage end-plate was measured in each degenerated cervical disc.

RESULTS

A positive correlation existed between the thickness of the calcified layer of the cartilage end-plate and the degree of the cervical disc degeneration (r = 0.92).

CONCLUSION

The calcification of the cartilage end-plate could initiate and promote intervertebral disc degeneration.