Figure 1

Results of plain radiographs (A, E, I), dorsal view (B, F, J) and ventral view (C, G, K) 3D CT scan images, and coronary reconstructive images (D, H, L) in groups of Alginate only and Alginate-MSCs under hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment. A, B, C, D. The alginate carriers were completely absorbed and there was no bone formation between the transverse processes in the animal implanted with alginate without mesenchymal stem cells. E, F, G, H. Partial bone formation between the transverse processes in the animal implanted with Alginate-MSCs after HBO therapy. The scattered and uncalcified bone mass formation without successful fusion was noted. I, J, K, L. A successful, continuous bone fusion mass with calcification was noted between the transverse processes in the animal implanted with Alginate-MSCs after HBO therapy. No new bone formation occurred in any unintended areas on the CT scan images.