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Postoperative discitis. Radiology of progress and healing
V A Nielsen1, E Iversen, P Ahlgren
1Department of Radiology, Glostrup Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark.
Acta Radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Postoperative discitis diagnosis is aided by laminar tomography, revealing early signs like end plate blurring and vertebral cavitation. This imaging technique is a viable alternative when MRI is unavailable for detecting spinal infection.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Spinal Imaging
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Postoperative discitis is a serious complication following spinal surgery.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and patient outcomes.
- Understanding the roentgenologic progression of the disease is essential for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the roentgenologic course of postoperative discitis.
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of laminar tomography compared to other imaging modalities.
- To compare radiologic findings in patients with discitis to a matched control group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 111 patients with postoperative discitis.
- Primary imaging modality: laminar tomography.
- Comparison with a matched control group for long-term radiologic changes.
Main Results:
- Earliest signs include end plate blurring or minor vertebral destruction, progressing to cavitation.
- Mean time to first clinical symptoms: 3 weeks; first radiologic lesions: 2 months.
- Discitis group showed significantly higher incidence of decreased disc height, intercorporal fusion, and osteophytes.
Conclusions:
- Laminar tomography is effective in visualizing the roentgenologic progression of postoperative discitis.
- It serves as a valuable diagnostic tool, particularly when MRI is not accessible.
- Long-term follow-up reveals distinct radiologic sequelae in patients with discitis.