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The relationship between facet tropism and cervical disc herniation
Xuecheng Huang1,2, Linqiang Ye3, Xiang Liu4
1National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
Journal of Anatomy
|January 22, 2020
Summary
Facet tropism, an angular difference in cervical spine facet joints, is linked to cervical disc herniation (CDH). This study found CDH occurs more frequently on the side with a larger facet angle, suggesting a connection between facet tropism and CDH.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Facet tropism is associated with lumbar disc herniation.
- The relationship between facet tropism and cervical disc herniation (CDH) is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between facet tropism and the side of cervical disc herniation (CDH).
Main Methods:
- Compared 96 patients with single-level CDH to 50 healthy controls.
- Measured cervical facet angles using axial computed tomography (CT).
- Defined facet tropism as an angular difference of 7° between facet joints.
Main Results:
- Facet tropism was more prevalent in the CDH group across C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7 levels.
- Facet tropism angles were significantly larger in the CDH group.
- Cervical disc herniations occurred on the side with the larger facet angle.
Conclusions:
- Facet tropism is associated with cervical disc herniation.
- Cervical disc herniation tends to occur on the side with a larger facet angle.
- Further research is needed to explore the biomechanical impact of facet tropism on CDH.
