A method for treating a spinal disc having an outer relatively intact
annulus defining a disc space and an inner defective nucleus pulposus
within the disc space, comprises the steps of: determining the integrity
of the annulus by subjecting the annulus to a first pressure applied
internally of the annulus; providing access to the nucleus pulposus
through the annulus without removing any tissue from the annulus or from
the nucleus pulposus; and sealably injecting curable biomaterial through
the annulus access directly into the nucleus pulposus at a second
pressure correlated with the first pressure. The integrity of the annulus
may be determined by a pre-operative discogram using a contrast medium
that has a viscosity substantially similar to the viscosity of the
biomaterial to be injected. The needle is placed initially within the
center of the nucleus pulposus and then withdrawn during the injection to
approximately the inner border of the annulus. The second pressure is
then maintained until the biomaterial is substantially cured. In steps,
the curable biomaterial has strong adhesive properties and is capable of
injection under pressure to fill fissures in the nucleus pulposus. The
curable biomaterial may be injected under a pressure sufficient to
distract opposing vertebral bodies communicating with the disc space.