Isolated intervertebral disc resorption. A source of mechanical and inflammatory back pain?

Seven patients underwent anterior interbody spinal fusions to alleviate pain due to resorption of an intervertebral disc. The anterior annulus of the discs at operation was inflamed. The specimens were studied histologically, and the findings are discussed. The demonstration of inflammation in the anterior annulus together with the recent identification of nerve fibres in the anterior annulus now allows a better understanding of discogenic pain and its management.