Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Optical Sectioning and Visualization of the Intervertebral Disc from Embryonic Development to Degeneration
Published on: July 8, 2021
Axial T2 mapping in intervertebral discs: a new technique for assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration
Sven Hoppe1, Sebastian Quirbach, Tallal C Mamisch
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, 3010 Berne, Switzerland.
Objectives:
To demonstrate the potential benefits of biochemical axial T2 mapping of intervertebral discs (IVDs) regarding the detection and grading of early stages of degenerative disc disease using 1.5-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a clinical setting.
Methods:
Ninety-three patients suffering from lumbar spine problems were examined using standard MRI protocols including an axial T2 mapping protocol. All discs were classified morphologically and grouped as "healthy" or "abnormal". Differences between groups were analysed regarding to the specific T2 pattern at different regions of interest (ROIs).
Results:
Healthy intervertebral discs revealed a distinct cross-sectional T2 value profile: T2 values were significantly lower in the annulus fibrosus compared with the nucleus pulposus (P = 0.01). In abnormal IVDs, T2 values were significantly lower, especially towards the centre of the disc representing the expected decreased water content of the nucleus (P = 0.01). In herniated discs, ROIs within the nucleus pulposus and ROIs covering the annulus fibrosus showed decreased T2 values.
Conclusions:
Axial T2 mapping is effective to detect early stages of degenerative disc disease. There is a potential benefit of axial T2 mapping as a diagnostic tool, allowing the quantitative assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration.
Related Concept Videos
Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction

