Computed Tomographic Evaluation of the Morphometry of the Intervertebral Foramina and Intervertebral Discs of the...

The cervical spine comprises vertebrae and intervertebral discs that facilitate neck mobility and protect neurovascular structures. Intervertebral foramina serve as conduits for spinal nerves and vessels and may undergo morphological changes with aging and degeneration, potentially leading to neurological symptoms. The objectives of this study included performing a CT analysis of the morphometry of intervertebral foramina and the height of the intervertebral disc across different levels of the cervical spine, with comparisons based on age, vertebral level, gender, and laterality.

This observational study analyzed CT scans of the cervical spine from 104 patients. Vertical height, anteroposterior depth, and cross-sectional area of intervertebral foramina were measured bilaterally at levels C2C3 to C6C7. Intervertebral disc height was also assessed. Participants were categorized into four age groups and by sex. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA, paired samples t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and one-sample t-test.

Foraminal dimensions, especially vertical height and cross-sectional area, showed a statistically significant decline with increasing age, most prominently at lower cervical levels (C5C6 and C6C7). Intervertebral disc height also decreased significantly with age, particularly at C5C6. Males demonstrated consistently larger foraminal dimensions and disc heights compared to females. Except for C4C5, foraminal dimensions were largely symmetrical between right and left sides. Age-related degenerative changes in the cervical spine predominantly affect the lower cervical levels, leading to a reduction in foraminal size and disc height.

The observed morphometric variations, alongside gender differences, underscore the importance of individualized anatomical assessment in the diagnosis and management of cervical spine pathologies.