Safety of autologous bone marrow stromal cell transplantation in dogs with acute spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility and safety of transplantation of autologous bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) in dogs with acute spinal cord injury (SCI).

STUDY DESIGN: An open-label single-arm trial.

ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 7) with severe SCI from T6 to L5, caused by vertebral fracture and luxation.

METHODS: Decompressive and stabilization surgery was performed on dogs with severe SCI caused by vertebral fracture and luxation. Autologous BMSCs were obtained from each dog's femur, cultured, and then injected into the lesion in the acute stage. Adverse events and motor and sensory function were observed for >1 year after SCI.

RESULTS: Follow-up was 29-62 months after SCI. No complications (eg, infection, neuropathic pain, worsening of neurologic function) were observed. Two dogs walked without support, but none of the 7 dogs had any change in sensory function.

CONCLUSIONS: Autologous BMSC transplantation is feasible and safe in dogs with acute SCI. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy of this therapy.