Hydrafil (hydrogel to repair damaged intervertebral discs)

2022: Hydrogel announcement

In June 2022, ReGelTec announced the release of the hydrogel Hydrafil, which developers say is repairing damaged intervertebral discs. The manufacturer stated the high efficiency of its product and confirmed this with a study.

Human trials have shown that hydrogel injections are a promising and effective treatment for chronic lower back pain caused by osteochondrosis (DDD). This treatment method is much less invasive than other surgeries.

Hydrogel released that repairs damaged intervertebral discs

Spinal discs play an important role in the cushioning of the vertebrae, but like many other parts of the body, they begin to wear out as they age. In many people, the fluid filling the discs can dry or leak out, causing pain and disrupting mobility. Unfortunately, treatment is mainly limited to measures such as rest, physiotherapy and pain medication, and in more severe cases surgery, where discs are removed or replaced with prostheses.

The hydrogel can be injected into the spine, where it fills cracks and tears in the affected disc, restoring some of its cushioning to relieve pain. The trials involved 20 patients aged 22 to 69 years, all suffering from chronic low back pain caused by DDD. They all described their pain as four or higher on a 10-point scale, all of which noted only mild relief from existing treatments.

First, the gel is heated so that it turns into a thick liquid, which is then injected using a 17-gauge needle into the affected discs. When the gel cools to body temperature, it forms an implant with the same biomechanical properties as a natural disc. Patients were then followed for six months to assess their recovery.

All participants noted pain relief and improved mobility, according to the report. On a scale of 0 to 10, mean pain decreased from 7.1 to 2.0. In a questionnaire about how low back pain prevents them from engaging in daily activities, the average score dropped from 48 to 6.

If these findings are confirmed in further studies, then the procedure could be a very promising treatment for chronic low back pain in those who have not received enough relief from conservative treatment, said Douglas Beale, lead author of the study. The gel is easy to use, does not require open surgery and is an easy procedure for the patient.[1]

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