Constructing the rabbit model of degenerative intervertebral disc by anulus puncture.

[Objective]To construct the rabbit model of degenerative intervertebral disc by anulus puncture and analyze its characteristics. [Methods]Sixteen New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 2 groups.Intervertebral discs of L2、3 and L3、4 were exposed by extro-peritoneal approach.Group A was for annulus puncture with an 16-gauge needle and group B was used as a control.Pathological change of intervertebral disc was checked with MRI and histopathological examination at 2,4,6,and 8 weeks after operation.[Results]After operation in Group A,the intensity of nucleus gelatinosus was declined,the area of nucleus gelatinosus was deflated and the height of intervertebral space was also decreased,but the significant changes occurred from the fourth week on(P0.05).The histological sections demonstrated that the cell content in nucleus pulposus was gradually increased.[Conclusion]The rabbit model of intervertebral disc degeneration can be successfully constructed by the method of anulus puncture.This method can authentically imitate intervertebral disc degeneration in human beings.