ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To explore value of multiplanar reconstruction of lumbar nerve roots on the same level by high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation and/or bulge (LDHB). METHODS: Thirty-one patients with manifestations of typical nerve root compression, such as lumbago and tenderness of percussion pain at the corresponding sites were scanned with 16-slice spiral CT and multiplanar reconstruction of lumbar nerve roots on the same level with the workshop ADW4.150, and were diagnosed as with LDHB with 50 segments. The diagnoses were confirmed by operation later. RESULTS: This technique showed not only the existence of LDHB but also the signs of nerve root compression, including the touch of nerve roots with the LDHB (100%), translocation of nerve roots (96%), morphological change (94%), changes of diameter (92%), changes of direction (88%), changes of density (80%), increase of the angle between the dural sac and nerve root (76%), etc. Along with the prolonging of time, the nerve roots became thinner in all segments. CONCLUSION: Multiplanar reconstruction of lumbar nerve roots on the same level by high resolution computed tomography is valuable in the diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation and/or bulge.
