Researchers at the Oklahoma Clinic of Radiology have reported positive results from an injectable cell therapy aimed at reducing back pain and signs of damage in the lumbar spine. The study findings were shared at a meeting of the Society for Interventional Radiology held in Phoenix.
Intervertebral disc degeneration, a condition commonly seen in older adults, often leads to persistent pain and limited mobility. In the initial phase of the clinical trial, 218 participants were assigned to receive either a saline placebo or VIA Disc injections in the lower back, allowing a direct comparison of outcomes.
One year into the study, a notable portion of participants treated with VIA Disc experienced pain relief, with 56% reporting improvement compared with 45% in the saline group.
The researchers then extended the study to monitor longer effects. At the two-year mark, 41% of the VIA Disc group showed improved mobility and reduced pain, while 22% of those given placebo reported similar gains. Importantly, no lasting adverse effects were observed in any of the participants.
Follow-up assessments through year three continued to show meaningful benefits for those treated with VIA Disc, with 51% reporting ongoing improvement in pain and function.
The VIA Disc treatment consists of a combination of bone marrow cells and fragmented spinal cord tissue sourced from donors. The trial was financed by the manufacturer, VIVEX Biologics, the company behind VIA Disc. Currently, the therapy is under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for potential regulatory approval.