The formation of epidural
fibrosis adjacent to the dura mater is a complex multi-step process that is associated with a marked reduction in tissue cellularity and the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components. Extensive epidural
fibrosis is a major cause of
post-laminectomy syndrome.
Decorin strongly inhibits
fibrosis formation in various tissues via blockade of transforming growth factor-β1. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a topical application of
decorin on the formation of epidural
fibrosis in a rat
laminectomy model. Twenty-four female Wistar albino rats (250-350 g) were equally and randomly divided into three groups (control,
spongostan and
decorin).
Laminectomy was performed between the L3 and L5 levels in all rats. The dura mater was directly exposed to
spongostan soaked with saline (2 cc/kg) or
decorin (100 µg/kg). Four weeks later, the laminectomized spine of the rats was completely removed between the L3 and L5 levels. The extent of the epidural
fibrosis and arachnoidal involvement was histopathologically evaluated and graded. Our data revealed that epidural
fibrosis was significantly reduced in the group treated with
decorin compared to the
spongostan and control groups (P<0.05). Our study demonstrates that the topical application of
decorin can be effective in reducing the formation of epidural
fibrosis in a simple
laminectomy rat model.