Chymopapain

Abstract

Chymopapain is a proteolytic enzyme injected intradiscally for the treatment of herniated lumbar discs. The average success rate is 73 percent for elimination of backache and sciatica. Side effects occur in three percent of patients, the most serious being anaphylaxis in about one percent. A majority of patients experience severe back pain or spasms during the first 24–48 hours after treatment. This treatment modality consumes fewer hospital days and produces a quicker return to work than does surgery. It does not affect subsequent surgical procedures adversely. Chymopapain chemonucleolysis is safe and effective when administered by experienced physicians and when adequate precautions are taken. It can be considered the last step before surgery in the conservative management of herniated lumbar discs.