Stem cells vs. bone grafts: which is better for back surgery?
NCT ID NCT02297256
First seen May 06, 2026 · Last updated Jun 20, 2026 · Updated 5 times
Summary
This study tested whether using a patient's own bone marrow stem cells (BMAC) mixed with donor bone works as well as the standard bone graft from the hip for spinal fusion. Seventeen adults with degenerative disc disease were randomly assigned to one of the two procedures. The goal was to see which method leads to better bone healing and less pain after surgery.
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Center for Musculoskeletal Care (CMC)
New York, New York, 10016, United States
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NY Spine Institute
Westbury, New York, 11590, United States
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NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases
New York, New York, 10003, United States
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) with allograft
What this could lead to
If BMAC works as well as the standard bone graft, it could offer a less painful option for spinal fusion surgery.
What could go wrong
This is a very small, early study with only 17 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The procedure still involves major surgery and risks like infection or non-union.
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.