Raininko et al graded the degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc as seen on magnetic resonance images (MRI). The authors are from the Universities of Washington and Texas Southwestern.
Parameters:
(1) shape of the central high signal region
(2) location of the central high signal region
(3) extent of high signal area
Appearance on MRI
Grade
shape of central high signal area round or reniform
central high signal area centrally located
sagittal diameter of central area <= 60% of disc
0
high signal area is slightly irregular, extended or laterally situated
1
high signal area is moderately irregular, OR
high signal area severely extended
2
severely irregular nuclear shape
size and intensity of central high signal area decreased
3
central nuclear area cannot be differentiated
4
sagittal diameter in cm =
= (width anterior to high signal area in cm) + (width of high signal area in cm) + (width posterior to high signal area)
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