A New Treatment For Neck Surgeries?

A New Treatment For Neck Surgeries?

August 02, 20243 min read

Is your neck pain driving you crazy? Discover a groundbreaking new treatment that could be your ticket to relief.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world-changing TARP. Learn how this innovative technology might be the future of treating cervical disc herniation.

Don't miss out on this game-changing episode, tune in now!

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Episode Video


Introduction to Cervical Disc Reherniation and Emerging Therapies

Groundbreaking therapy being studied on goats is showing promise for potentially reducing cervical disc reherniation. Researchers at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia have been working on a patent involving innovative technology specifically targeting herniated discs in the neck. While the focus has primarily been on cervical discs, the implications of this research may eventually extend to the more commonly affected lumbar spine.

Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation

Cervical disc herniation occurs when the discs in the neck region become damaged, often causing severe symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms. Conservative management is often the first line of treatment, but in cases of significant discomfort or disability, a surgical procedure known as microdiskectomy is performed. This involves shaving off the herniated portion of the disc. Unfortunately, this procedure often leaves a raw area on the disc, increasing the risk of reherniation.


The Role of Tension Activated Repair Patch (TARP)

The Tension Activated Repair Patch, or TARP, represents a promising new technology designed to address this issue. As detailed in a study published in Science Translational Medicine in late 2023, TARP involves placing a patch around the herniated disc to provide structural support. This patch helps in re-cushioning the vertebrae, preventing further disc leakage into the spinal column.

How TARP Works

The TARP is a patch containing Anakinra, a medication that helps reduce inflammation. Anakinra works by blocking interleukin-1, a protein that triggers inflammation. By incorporating Anakinra into the patch, it not only provides physical support but also actively aids in healing by reducing inflammation. This combination makes the TARP an effective tool for recovery.

Potential Benefits and Future Applications

Research is currently focusing on younger patients with cervical disc herniation due to trauma, such as whiplash injuries. The application of TARP in these cases may prevent reherniation by effectively patching the disc. Looking ahead, there is potential for this technology to be adapted for use in the lumbar spine, where disc herniation is more common. Although lumbar discs are larger and present different challenges in terms of patch placement and tension management, the underlying principles of TARP could still be applicable.


Final Thoughts

Dr. Harvey Smith and his team at the VA Medical Center are working on a new treatment to prevent discs in the neck from re-bulging. Their research, using a method called TARP, shows promise in animal studies. If successful in human trials, TARP could significantly improve the treatment of disc problems by reducing re-occurrences and encouraging healing. This breakthrough demonstrates the power of medical research and its potential to benefit patients with both neck and lower back disc issues. We eagerly await further updates on this promising development in spinal care.


Additional Resources

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Tammy Penhollow, DO, is an experienced pain management and regenerative medicine specialist practicing at Precision Regenerative Medicine, located in Scottsdale, Arizona. She is skilled in image-guided joint and spine injections and regenerative aesthetic procedures. 

Dr. Penhollow graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (now known as AT Still University). She completed her transitional year internship at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington, and began her US Navy career deployed to Kosovo as the solo physician for a 720 person US Naval Mobile Construction Battalion.
Following that, she completed a second General Medical Officer assignment for three years as an instructor for the Navy’s Independent Duty Corpsman school, where she taught physical diagnosis and medical diagnosis and treatment to the Navy’s advanced corpsmen who were assigned to forward deployed marine units, submarines and special forces units.

Dr. Tammy Penhollow

Tammy Penhollow, DO, is an experienced pain management and regenerative medicine specialist practicing at Precision Regenerative Medicine, located in Scottsdale, Arizona. She is skilled in image-guided joint and spine injections and regenerative aesthetic procedures. Dr. Penhollow graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (now known as AT Still University). She completed her transitional year internship at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington, and began her US Navy career deployed to Kosovo as the solo physician for a 720 person US Naval Mobile Construction Battalion. Following that, she completed a second General Medical Officer assignment for three years as an instructor for the Navy’s Independent Duty Corpsman school, where she taught physical diagnosis and medical diagnosis and treatment to the Navy’s advanced corpsmen who were assigned to forward deployed marine units, submarines and special forces units.

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