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Thoracic and Lumbosacral Spine Anatomy
Syed S Hashmi1, Kimberly D Seifert1, Tarik F Massoud1
1Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Center for Academic Medicine (CAM), 453 Quarry Road, Room 325B, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
Neuroimaging Clinics of North America
|October 16, 2022
Summary
Understanding normal spinal anatomy is key for detecting abnormalities in spine imaging. This review covers thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine anatomy using common and emerging imaging techniques.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Accurate interpretation of spinal imaging relies on a thorough understanding of normal anatomy.
- Deviations from normal anatomy can indicate pathology, making anatomical knowledge crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the normal anatomy of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine.
- To emphasize the typical appearance of the thoracic and lumbosacral spine across various imaging modalities.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical structures of the spine.
- Focus on imaging techniques including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Inclusion of less common and emerging spinal imaging techniques.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of normal anatomical variations in the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine.
- Illustrative examples of normal spinal anatomy as seen on CT and MRI.
- Overview of advanced imaging techniques for spinal evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Knowledge of normal spinal anatomy is essential for identifying pathological findings on imaging.
- This review serves as a guide for interpreting spinal imaging studies.
- Familiarity with diverse imaging techniques enhances diagnostic accuracy.
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