Bioengineering (May 2024)

Sacral Bioneuromodulation: The Role of Bone Marrow Aspirate in Spinal Cord Injuries

  • José Fábio Lana,
  • Annu Navani,
  • Madhan Jeyaraman,
  • Napoliane Santos,
  • Luyddy Pires,
  • Gabriel Silva Santos,
  • Izair Jefthé Rodrigues,
  • Douglas Santos,
  • Tomas Mosaner,
  • Gabriel Azzini,
  • Lucas Furtado da Fonseca,
  • Alex Pontes de Macedo,
  • Stephany Cares Huber,
  • Daniel de Moraes Ferreira Jorge,
  • Joseph Purita

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11050461
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 5
p. 461

Abstract

Read online

Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a severe trauma to the nervous system, leading to significant neurological damage, chronic inflammation, and persistent neuropathic pain. Current treatments, including pharmacotherapy, immobilization, physical therapy, and surgical interventions, often fall short in fully addressing the underlying pathophysiology and resultant disabilities. Emerging research in the field of regenerative medicine has introduced innovative approaches such as autologous orthobiologic therapies, with bone marrow aspirate (BMA) being particularly notable for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. This review focuses on the potential of BMA to modulate inflammatory pathways, enhance tissue regeneration, and restore neurological function disrupted by SCI. We hypothesize that BMA’s bioactive components may stimulate reparative processes at the cellular level, particularly when applied at strategic sites like the sacral hiatus to influence lumbar centers and higher neurological structures. By exploring the mechanisms through which BMA influences spinal repair, this review aims to establish a foundation for its application in clinical settings, potentially offering a transformative approach to SCI management that extends beyond symptomatic relief to promoting functional recovery.

Keywords