Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
07:25
Ovine Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model Utilizing a Lateral Retroperitoneal Drill Bit Injury
Published on: May 25, 2017
Anatomic considerations of the posterolateral lumbar disk region
Y Gu1, N A Ebraheim, R Xu
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical College of Ohio, Toledo 43614, USA.
Orthopedics
|February 24, 2001
Summary
A safe zone for lumbar nerve root and sympathetic trunk procedures was identified. This anatomical space, crucial for surgical navigation, varies in width across lumbar levels.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Navigation
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Accurate anatomical knowledge is vital for safe surgical interventions in the lumbar spine.
- Understanding the spatial relationship between lumbar nerve roots and the sympathetic trunk is critical for minimizing iatrogenic injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the safe anatomical zone between the lumbar nerve root and sympathetic trunk in the posterolateral lumbar disk region.
- To provide precise measurements of this safe zone for surgical planning.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of sixteen embalmed cadavers.
- Determination of the location of lumbar nerve roots and sympathetic trunks relative to the superior border of the transverse process.
Main Results:
- A safe posterolateral lumbar disk region was identified between the lumbar nerve and sympathetic trunk.
- The safe zone measured 22 mm transversely at the T12-L1 disk and 25 mm at the L4-L5 disk.
- The genitofemoral nerve was noted as an exception, running close to the L2-L3 disk margin.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the posterolateral anatomical orientation of lumbar nerves and the sympathetic trunk.
- This provides crucial data for enhancing safety in lumbar spine surgeries and interventions.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:27Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition in which intervertebral discs gradually lose structure and function. It is not infectious or autoimmune; rather, it results from age-related biochemical and mechanical changes, influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors.Structure and Function of DiscsThe spine contains 23 intervertebral discs that absorb load, distribute forces, maintain spacing, and allow flexibility. Each disc consists of a nucleus pulposus, a gel-like core...
01:23Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...