An unusual remedy was created to relieve pain after hernia removal 13:04

Scientists from Uppsala University have created a gel based on cow mucus to reduce pain and inflammation after surgical removal of a herniated disc. Research results It was published In the journal Advanced Science.

A herniated disc is a common problem that involves the bulging of the intervertebral disc between the vertebral bodies. This change in shape can cause severe pain and impair the function of the spine, leading many people to require surgery to remove the herniated disc.

After the procedure, patients usually take anti-inflammatory medications or steroids to relieve pain and swelling, but there is no treatment yet that can eliminate the cause of the pain: the immune system’s attack on the remaining disc tissue.

To create a way to control the body’s immune response, scientists synthesized a hydrogel based on bovine mucin (mucus). The researchers explained that mucins have strong immunomodulatory effects, weakening the inflammatory activation of dendritic cells, which leads to increased secretion of anti-inflammatory molecules called IL-10.

Scientists designed the development on mice with herniated discs. Gel was applied to the damaged areas during the herniation. It was discovered that the mucin gel creates a specific protective barrier around the discs and prevents the immune system from attacking the nucleus pulposus of the discs. It also suppressed unwanted activation of immune cells, reducing postoperative pain and inflammation.

The researchers noted that traditional physical barrier agents, such as alginate gels, have not been able to provide this level of protection. The scientists hope that their development will become widespread in clinical practice and help reduce the risk of long-term complications after intervertebral disc surgery.

Russian scientists previously learned Accurately identify sources of back pain.