MRI Lumbar Spine
The basic principles of the MRI scan of the lumbar spine.
![MRI Lumbar Spine](content/images/modules/MRI%20lumbar%20spine/Eng/resized/MRI_lumbarSpine_front_640x500.jpg)
Normal Anatomy
The lumbar spine serves three main functions:
- Support of the upper body; absorbing axial forces originating from the head/neck/torso (this also explains why the lumbar vertebrae are larger than the cervical and thoracic vertebrae).
- Mobility: allowing flexion/extension, rotation, and lateral bending.
- Formation and protection of the spinal canal and associated exiting spinal nerves.
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Text
drs. A. van der Plas (MSK radiologist Maastricht UMC+)
With special thanks to:
dr. W. Henneman (neuroradiologist Maastricht UMC+)
Illustrations
drs. A. van der Plas (MSK radiologist Maastricht UMC+)
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08/10/2023
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