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Imaging of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae
1Department of Radiology, The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Stanmore, Middlesex, UK.
Clinical Radiology
|October 19, 2004
Summary
Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are common but their link to low back pain is unclear. Accurate identification on MRI is crucial to prevent surgical errors due to misnumbered lumbar discs and vertebrae.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Anatomy
Background:
- Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are frequently observed anatomical variations.
- The clinical significance of LSTV, particularly regarding low back pain and disc prolapse, remains debated.
- Diagnostic challenges exist in identifying LSTV on sagittal MRI sequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the imaging findings of LSTV on plain radiography and MRI.
- To discuss the clinical significance and diagnostic implications of LSTV.
- To highlight the potential for misidentification leading to incorrect surgical levels.
Main Methods:
- Review of plain radiography findings for LSTV.
- Analysis of MRI characteristics of LSTV, focusing on sagittal sequences.
- Discussion of potential diagnostic pitfalls and clinical relevance.
Main Results:
- LSTV can be challenging to identify definitively on sagittal MRI views.
- Misidentification may lead to confusion in lumbar disc and vertebral numbering.
- This confusion poses a risk for inappropriate surgical level selection.
Conclusions:
- Accurate radiological identification of LSTV is essential.
- Awareness of LSTV imaging features can prevent diagnostic errors.
- Correct identification is critical for appropriate patient management and surgical planning.
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