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Lumbar facet joint asymmetry. Intervertebral disc herniation
J D Cassidy1, D Loback, K Yong-Hing
1Department of Orthopaedics, Royal University Hospital, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
Spine
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Facet joint asymmetry is not linked to lumbar disc herniation. This study found no significant association between facet joint orientation and the level, type, or side of herniation in patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Lumbar intervertebral disc herniation is a common condition.
- Facet joint morphology may influence disc pathology.
- Previous research has suggested a link between facet joint asymmetry and disc herniation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between facet joint asymmetry and lumbar intervertebral disc herniation.
- To determine if facet joint asymmetry correlates with the level, type, or side of herniation.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomographic (CT) scans of 136 patients with lumbar disc herniation (L4-5, L5-S1) were analyzed.
- Facet joint angles were measured at herniated and adjacent control levels.
- Facet joint asymmetry was compared between central and lateral herniations.
Main Results:
- Facet joint asymmetry was observed at all measured levels, with no significant differences between herniated and control levels.
- A statistically significant difference in facet angle was found on the herniated side at L5-S1 for lateral herniations, but this was not clinically relevant (<3 degrees).
- No correlation was found between facet joint orientation (coronal/sagittal) and the side of lateral herniation.
Conclusions:
- The study's findings do not support the hypothesis that facet joint asymmetry is associated with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation.
- Facet joint morphology does not appear to be a primary factor in the development of lumbar disc herniation.