In vivo quantification of lumbar disc degeneration: assessment of ADC value using a degenerative scoring system based on Pfirrmann framework.
Eur Spine J
; 24(11): 2442-8, 2015 Nov.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-25502000
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE:
To evaluate the role of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) as a quantitative means to assess the degree of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration contextually within the framework of a widely used Pfirrmann classification rather than in a direct correlation with Pfirrmann grades.METHODS:
DWI and T2-weighted (T2w) of lumbar spine were acquired from nine healthy volunteers (age range 27-62 years, mean age 45 years) with a 3T MR scanner. ADC values were obtained from each of the five lumbar discs via a pixel-by-pixel ADC calculation as well as via region of interest-averaged image intensities. Disc degeneration was assessed by a scoring system via sequential application of Pfirrmann scale and use of intensity ratio of IVD/cerebrospinal fluid in T2w for discs in each Pfirrmann grade to be further separated.RESULTS:
A significant correlation was observed between degenerative scores and ADC independent of how ADC was obtained (Spearman's ρ < -0.85, P < 2 × 10(-14)).CONCLUSIONS:
This study demonstrates that previously perceived as an overlap in ADC value existing between different degenerative categories based on a visual inspection can be viewed as a quantitative role of ADC in assessment of disc degeneration. This reinforces the Pfirrmann classification system but also proceeds beyond mere qualitatively determining morphologic states.Key words
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
/
Lumbar Vertebrae
Type of study:
Diagnostic_studies
Limits:
Adult
/
Humans
/
Middle aged
Language:
En
Journal:
Eur Spine J
Journal subject:
ORTOPEDIA
Year:
2015
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
United States