Morphometric analysis of cervical canal by computerized tomography (CT) scan in north Indians

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical spinal stenosis is a common disease that results in considerable morbidity and disability. It requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term disabilities secondary to irreversible spinal cord injury. The bodies of the cervical vertebrae are smaller in size compared with those of other vertebrae and function to protect the spinal cord, support the head, and allow movement of the head (in flexion, extension, and rotation). Material and Methods: This is a Case control prospective study conducted at Santosh Medical College, Ghaziabad and Mayo Institute of Medical Sciences, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh. The present study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy and Radio diagnosis. Diagnosed cases of (Neck pain) with suspected cervical canal stenosis and facet joint arthrosis from OPD of Department of Orthopedics and Neurology of Santosh Medical referred to Radio diagnosis department for CT scan was chosen as subject. Result: In our study, results suggest gradual increase of spinal canal Sagittal vertebral body diameter (AP-V), from C3 (14.06±0.76) to C7 (14.44±0.75). Furthermore, in our study at the level of C7 (9.23±0.40) the Sagittal spinal cord diameter (AP-SC) increases and the smallest sagittal diameter of the canal were detected at the level of C3 (9.05±0.47).