MRI Lumbar Spine
The basic principles of the MRI scan of the lumbar spine.
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.
Interested?
Learn everything about MRI Lumbar Spine
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+)
Sources:
-
C. Lavy, P. Marks, K. Dangas, N. Todd; Cauda equina syndrome—a practical guide to definition and classification. International Orthopaedics (2022)
-
L. Bulloch, K. Thompson, L. Spector; Cauda Equina Syndrome. Orthop Clin North Am. (2022)
-
C. Colosimo et al; Contrast-enhanced MR imaging of the spine: When, why and how? How to optimize contrast protocols in MR imaging of the spine. Neuroradiology (2006)
-
M. Farshad et al; Spondylophyte classification based on biomechanical effects on segmental stiffness. Spine J (2022)
T.S. Jensen et al.; Vertebral endplate signal changes (Modic change): a systematic literature review of prevalence and association with non-specific low back pain. Eur Spine J. (2008) -
A. Pietrok; Schmorl’s Node: An Uncommon Case of Back Pain and Radiculopathy. Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2022
-
A.C Gellhorn, J.N Katz, P. Suri; Osteoarthritis of the spine: the facet joints. Nat Rev Rheumatol (2013)
-
D.F. Fardon et al; Lumbar disc nomenclature: version 2.0: Recommendations of the combined task forces of the North American Spine Society, the American Society of Spine Radiology and the American Society of Neuroradiology. Spine J (2014)
-
S. Boudabbous et al; Spinal disorders mimicking infection. Insights into Imaging (2021)
-
J. Lotz; The Role of the Vertebral End Plate in Low Back Pain. Global Spine Journal (2013)
-
J.S. Kim et.al; Clinical Significance of Redundant Nerve Roots of the Cauda Equina in Spine MRI. iMRI (2022)
-
L. Cottle, T. Riordan; Infectious spondylodiscitis. J Infec (2008)
-
H.P. Ledermann et.al; MR imaging findings in spinal infections: rules or myths? Radiology (2003)
08/10/2023
(All the work (text, illustrations, visual elements) seen on this website is copyright by Radiology Expert.
It may not be used without written permission of Radiology Expert).