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Summary
A normal variant called the foraminal spur, seen on CT scans, extends into the neuroforamen. These asymptomatic bony processes, likely ossified ligamentum flavum, should not be confused with other spinal pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Spinal Anatomy
Background:
- Foraminal spurs are a potential incidental finding in spinal imaging.
- Differentiating spurs from pathology is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the imaging characteristics of foraminal spurs.
- To differentiate foraminal spurs from other bony abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of computed tomographic (CT) studies in five patients.
- Analysis of bony structures extending into the neuroforamen.
- Use of sagittal reformations for visualization.
Main Results:
- Foraminal spurs were identified as bony processes from the pars or pedicle.
- Spurs were located dorsal to the nerve root within the neuroforamen.
- All spurs were asymptomatic; no associated neuroforamen or facet disease was noted.
- Four cases showed bilateral spurs.
Conclusions:
- Foraminal spurs are a normal variant, likely representing ossification of the ligamentum flavum.
- These spurs should not be misdiagnosed as osteophytes, calcified disc fragments, or fracture fragments.
- Sagittal reformations aid in assessing the extent of these spurs.