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Sacroiliac joints: anatomical variants on CT
P K Prassopoulos1, C P Faflia, A E Voloudaki
1Department of Radiology, University Hospital, Medical School of Crete, Heraklion, Greece.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|March 30, 1999
Summary
This study identified six common anatomical variants of the sacroiliac joints (SJs) in patients without SJ disease. Understanding these variations aids in interpreting CT scans and diagnosing SJ conditions.
Area of Science:
- Anatomical Imaging
- Radiology
- Skeletal Anatomy
Background:
- Sacroiliac joints (SJs) are crucial for pelvic stability.
- Anatomical variations can mimic pathology on imaging.
- Understanding normal variants is key for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the types and prevalence of sacroiliac joint anatomical variants.
- To assess the association of these variants with patient demographics and low back pain.
- To improve the interpretation of CT scans involving the sacroiliac joints.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 534 pelvic CT scans.
- Evaluation of images using bone window settings for SJ deviations.
- Recording of patient demographics and low back pain history.
Main Results:
- Six types of SJ variants identified: accessory joints (19.1%), iliosacral complex (5.8%), bipartite iliac bony plate (4.1%), crescent-like iliac bony plate (3.7%), semicircular defects (3%), and ossification centers (0.6%).
- Accessory joints were more prevalent in obese and older patients, with degenerative changes in those with low back pain.
- Ilio-sacral complex, bipartite, and crescent-like iliac bony plates were more common in women and not associated with degeneration.
Conclusions:
- Normal anatomical variations of the sacroiliac joints are common.
- Specific variants show demographic associations and correlations with low back pain.
- Familiarity with these variants enhances diagnostic accuracy in sacroiliac joint imaging.