Evaluation of the effectiveness of ganoderma lucidum on epidural fibrosis in rat laminectomy model

Aim: Epidural fibrosis (EF), a common complication after spinal surgeries, may lead to recurrent pain, neurological deficits, and Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). EF is associated with post-surgical inflammation and wound healing, involving multiple mechanisms such as proinflammatory cytokine release, fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Although various pharmacological and physical barrier methods have been explored to prevent EF, their effectiveness remains limited. Therefore, there is a continuing need for safe and effective antifibrotic agents. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Ganoderma lucidum on the development of epidural fibrosis using a rat laminectomy model, assessed both macroscopically and histopathologically. Additionally, the study aimed to compare the antifibrotic efficacy of topical versus systemic administration routes. Material and Method: Twenty-four female Wistar albino rats, weighing between 250–300 grams, were randomly assigned to four groups: Laminectomy (L), Spongostan (S), Topical Ganoderma (TG), and Systemic Ganoderma (SG). All rats underwent total laminectomy at L2–L4 vertebral levels. After 4 weeks, macroscopic and histopathological evaluations were performed following sacrification. Results: Our data showed that both topical and systemic Ganoderma lucidum administration effectively reduced epidural fibrosis. Systemic administration produced superior results compared to topical use. Conclusion: Both topical and systemic Ganoderma lucidum significantly reduced epidural fibrosis through multiple mechanisms. To our knowledge, this study provides the first experimental evidence of its effects on epidural fibrosis. Keywords: Epidural Fibrosis, Laminectomy, Spinal, Ganoderma lucidum