Alpha-lipoic acid reduces peridural fibrosis after laminectomy of lumbar vertebrae in rabbits.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Peridural fibrosis is an inevitable healing process causing failed back surgery syndrome after lumbar spinal operations. In this study, alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), reported to reduce fibrosis in liver, oral mucosa, and peritoneum, investigated as a potential candidate for prevention of peridural fibrosis. METHOD: Twelve adult New Zealand white male rabbits were divided into control (n = 5) and ALA groups (n = 7). Laminectomy of lumbar spine was performed and ALA was applied on the exposed dura mater topically in ALA group. RESULTS: According to histological peridural grading, the ALA group (median grade 1) showed significantly less peridural fibrosis than the control group (median grade 3, p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: ALA is a promising substance in the prevention of peridural fibrosis, especially in early preoperative and postoperative period.