Safety of autologous bone marrow stromal cell transplantation in dogs with acute spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility and safety of transplantation of autologous bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) in dogs with acute spinal cord injury (SCI).

STUDY

DESIGN

An open-label single-arm trial.

ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 7) with severe SCI from T6 to L5, caused by vertebral fracture and luxation.

METHODS

Decompressive and stabilization surgery was performed on dogs with severe SCI caused by vertebral fracture and luxation. Autologous BMSCs were obtained from each dog's femur, cultured, and then injected into the lesion in the acute stage. Adverse events and motor and sensory function were observed for >1 year after SCI.

RESULTS

Follow-up was 29-62 months after SCI. No complications (eg, infection, neuropathic pain, worsening of neurologic function) were observed. Two dogs walked without support, but none of the 7 dogs had any change in sensory function.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous BMSC transplantation is feasible and safe in dogs with acute SCI. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy of this therapy.