Disc Chondrocyte Transplantation

The autologous disc-derived chondrocyte transplantation (ADTC) replaces the tissue lack due to the disc herniation and the disc operation. Thereby, the function of the disc can be restored and further degeneration can be prevented. As early as in 1996 the first ADCTs were done and in 1999 a pilot study for the controlled clinical use was started. The follow-up data of these patients showed very good results over a period of more than five years.

The possibility to repair the tissue defect only with autologous disc-derived chondrocytes, without the help of artificial or foreign material, is unique for the therapy method of the ADCT.