Lumbar vertebral pedicles: radiologic anatomy and pathology

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Advancements in high-resolution computed tomography (CT) have significantly improved the visualization and understanding of spinal structures.
• The vertebral pedicles are crucial anatomical components of the spine, and lesions affecting them can lead to various clinical conditions.
• Accurate identification and characterization of pedicular lesions are essential for appropriate patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the entire spectrum of lesions affecting the vertebral pedicles.
• To discuss the embryology, normal anatomy, normal variants, and potential pitfalls in the imaging of pedicular structures.
• To detail the congenital anomalies and pathological conditions involving the lumbar pedicles.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and imaging findings related to lumbar pedicular lesions.
• Discussion of the role of various imaging modalities, including plain films, computed tomography (CT), isotope bone scanning, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Integration of anatomical and pathological knowledge to interpret imaging findings.

Main Results:

• High-resolution CT provides detailed insights into pedicular anatomy and pathology.
• A wide range of conditions, from congenital anomalies to degenerative and neoplastic processes, can affect the pedicles.
• Multimodality imaging (CT, bone scan, MRI) is crucial for comprehensive evaluation and characterization of pedicular lesions.

Conclusions:

• This review serves as a valuable reference for understanding and diagnosing lumbar pedicular lesions.
• Familiarity with normal pedicular anatomy, variants, and potential imaging pitfalls is critical.
• Advanced imaging techniques, particularly high-resolution CT, are indispensable for the thorough assessment of pedicular pathology.