Related Experiment Videos
The role of computerised tomography in intervertebral disc prolapse
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|November 1, 1986
Summary
Computerised tomography (CT) effectively diagnoses lumbar disc prolapse, confirming pathology in 91% of operated patients. In resource-limited settings like Great Britain, CT is most valuable for patients with inconclusive conventional imaging results.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Lumbar disc prolapse is a common cause of back pain.
- Conventional imaging like radiculography can be normal or equivocal in some cases.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of computerised tomography (CT) of the lumbar spine.
- To assess CT's role in patients with suspected disc prolapse and non-diagnostic radiculograms.
Main Methods:
- Computerised tomography (CT) of the lumbar spine was performed.
- 22 patients with clinical suspicion of intervertebral disc prolapse and normal/equivocal radiculograms were included.
- Surgical outcomes were correlated with CT findings.
Main Results:
- CT scans were positive in 11 patients.
- Of these 11 patients who underwent surgery, 10 (91%) had confirmed pathology.
- CT scanning demonstrated high accuracy in diagnosing disc disorders.
Conclusions:
- Computerised tomography (CT) is a valuable tool for diagnosing lumbar disc prolapse.
- CT is particularly useful in cases with negative or equivocal radiculograms.
- In resource-limited healthcare systems, prioritizing CT for challenging cases optimizes its use.