For patients with degenerative disc disease who have not improved with conservative care, regenerative spine care addresses annular tears within degenerated discs. The fibrin procedure delivers FDA-approved fibrin sealant into tears under fluoroscopic guidance. Candidacy depends on imaging — not every DDD diagnosis fits.
Key Takeaways
- DDD is a progressive change pattern, not a single disease.
- Conservative care manages symptoms; the procedure addresses tears.
- Most degenerated discs still have functional structure.
- Imaging plus history confirms candidacy.
- Severe end-stage degeneration is commonly not a fit.
What This Guide Covers
- What is DDD really?
- When does regenerative care help?
- When does it not help?
- What does evaluation include?
What is DDD really?
DDD is the gradual breakdown of one or more spinal discs over time. The ‘disease’ framing is misleading — DDD is a progressive change pattern. The clinical question is whether tears within degenerated discs are driving pain.
When does regenerative care help?
Regenerative care helps when imaging shows discrete annular tears in degenerated discs that still have functional structure, and conservative care has not resolved the pain. The procedure addresses the tear directly.
When does it not help?
End-stage degeneration with severe disc-height collapse, gross instability, or vacuum phenomenon is commonly not a fit. The procedure does not regrow lost disc tissue.
What does evaluation include?
Evaluation includes recent MRI, focused exam, history of conservative care, and review of any surgical consultations. The Valor team gives a candidacy answer with the trade-offs laid out.
Clinical Note
Patients with DDD frequently arrive feeling that the diagnosis itself is a verdict. Our clinical staff treats it as a starting point. Most degenerated discs still have functional structure with addressable lesions inside them. The procedure is appropriate for some DDD patients, not all. The Valor team’s role is to surface which.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DDD reversible?
The structural changes are not, but the pain can frequently be addressed.
Does smoking matter?
Yes. Nicotine reduces disc nutrition; quitting supports outcomes.
Can multi-level DDD be treated?
In many cases, yes — when imaging shows addressable lesions.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified physician. Treatment decisions depend on your individual medical history and clinical findings. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether the procedure is right for you.
