Lumbar Anomalies Flashcards
These occur when the disc material herniates through the growth center of the ring apophysis, isolating the apophysis from the vertebral body. Can occur at the anterior or posterior body margins
Limbus bones
Also known as persistent notchord or Cupid’s bow. A common variation in the appearance of the vertebral body, most common in the lower lumbar spine.
Nuclear impression
A wide bony defect in the posterior arch of usually more than one segment, with protrusion of the spinal cord contents
Spina bifida Vera
Herniation of CSF filled sac
Meningocele
Herniation of CSF AND neural elements
Myelomeningocele
The lowest lumbar or highest sacral segment demonstrate characteristics of both the lumbar spine and sacrum
Lumbosacral transitional vertebra (AKA lumbarization, sacralization)
Transitional L5 segments may be associated with intervertebral disc herniations at the level immediately superior. This is known as:
Bertolotti syndrome
Asymmetrical facets. Most common at L5-S1 and L4-5. Best diagnosed on CT or MRI as X-Ray normally exaggerates the appearance of facet asymmetry
Facet tropism
Non-union of the secondary growth center for the articular process. Most common at inferior articular processes of L2 and L3
Oppenheimer’s Ossicle
The combination of spina bifida oculta of S1 and an elongated spinous process at L5
Clasp Knife Syndrome
A horizontal channel in the vertebral body created by the basilar vein
Hahn’s (venous) Clefts