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Modic degenerative marrow changes in the thoracic spine : a single center experience
Jae Meen Lee1, Kyoung Hyup Nam, In Sook Lee
1Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea.
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
|September 18, 2013
Summary
Modic changes (MCs) are rare in the thoracic spine, with type II predominating. However, thoracic disc herniations (DHs) are strongly associated with MCs, suggesting a link despite lower spinal mobility.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Spinal Imaging
- Degenerative Disc Disease
Background:
- Modic changes (MCs) and disc herniations (DHs) are common findings in spinal imaging.
- Their prevalence and association in the thoracic spine are less understood compared to other spinal regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence, types, and locations of Modic changes (MCs) in the thoracic spine.
- To investigate the relationship between Modic changes (MCs) and disc herniations (DHs) in the thoracic spine.
Main Methods:
- Thoracic MRIs of 144 patients with non-specific back pain were reviewed by two radiologists.
- Prevalence, distribution, and association of MCs and DHs were recorded.
- Patients aged 22-88 years; 50% female.
Main Results:
- Modic changes (MCs) were found in 5.6% of patients (0.58% of segments), predominantly type II at mid-thoracic levels.
- Disc herniations (DHs) were detected in 12.5% of patients (2.1% of segments).
- A strong association was observed between Modic changes (MCs) and disc herniations (DHs) at the same spinal level (p=0.000).
Conclusions:
- Modic changes (MCs) have a low prevalence in the thoracic spine, possibly due to reduced mobility.
- Type II Modic changes (MCs) are the most common type observed.
- Disc herniations (DHs) are significantly associated with Modic changes (MCs) in the thoracic spine.
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