Lumbar Spine + Associated Disorders

Question 1

What are the 4 stages in disc herniation?

Answer 1

Disc degeneration
Prolapse
Extrusion
Sequestration

Question 2

What are the 5 main symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 2

Bilateral sciatica
Perianal numbness
Paibnless urine retention
Urinal and faecal incontinece
Erectile dysfunction

Question 3

What are 4 consequences of cauda equina syndrome if it is not treated with surgical decompression within 48 hours of onset of symptoms?

Answer 3

Impotence
Faecal incontinence (manual evacuation required)
Loss of sensation in the lower limb
Weakness of muscles in the lower limb

Question 4

4 factors that can cause neurogenic claudication.

Answer 4

Spondylolisthesis
Disc bulging
Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy
Facet joint OA

Question 5

How does neurogenic claudication cause pain?

Answer 5

Venous engorgment occurs leading to transient Ischaemia as a result of reduced arterial blood flow.