The Discolytic Effects of Disken(R)(Chymopapain, made in Korea): Experimental Study

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of Disken(R)(chymopapain) on the intervertebral discs of Mongolian Dogs. Three healthy Mongolian dogs at same age(9 months) were underwent laparotomy, and the intradiscal injections of Disken(R) were made from the anterior. After sequential roentgenographic examination, the dogs were sacrificed at 1 month, and the gross and histological examination were performed. The results were as follows 1) The discolytic effects of Disken(R) were evidently observed through the roentgenographic and histological examination. 2) The maximal changes of intervertebral disc space narrowing developed within 1 week after injection. 3) The reduction percentage of disc spaces was ranged between 45% to 50%, compared to the pre-injections stage. 4) The nucleus pulposus was evidently affected, but the annulus fibrosus and epiphyseal cartilage were not affected. 5) The adverse reactions were not observed in this study.