Future Directions and New Technologies for the Management of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy

Abstract

The diagnosis and treatment of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) has been evolving over the past 5 decades as a result of collaborations between clinicians and scientists. The most recent trends in basic and clinical research include advances in imaging, clinical diagnostic tools, molecular genetics, surgical techniques, and reparative/regenerative strategies. Spine surgeons are witnessing a fast-paced evolution, which is reshaping the management strategies available for an aging population that suffers increasingly from this degenerative condition.

Keywords: Biomaterials; Biomedical engineering; Degenerative cervical myelopathy; Nanotechnology; Neuroprotective drugs; Osteobiologics; Regenerative strategies; Spinal implants.