Abstract
Is MRI useful in diagnosing nerve root constriction in lumbar canal stenosis?Lumbar spine MRIs were reviewed in a young control group (Group 1) and a surgically treated older group (Group 2).(Conclusions)(1) In group 1 T1 axial images at the disc level show the lateral recess and foramen as a thin open area of high signal intensity. This area is called an “eye” aperture. The “Eye” sits between the posterior aspect of the disc and the anterior aspect of the articular process.(2) The “Eyes” are closed in no cases of group 1 and 43% of group 2 from all checked nerve roots on MRI. The posterior aspect of the disc contacts the anterior aspect of the facet joint to a varying extent. We call this phenomenon the “Closed eye sign”.(3) 74% of the nerve roots with a positive “Closed eye sign” checked in surgery showed obvious macroscopic constriction (71% of L4 roots and 91% of L5 roots).(4) The positive “Closed eye sign” indicates definite narrowness of the nerve root channel and is useful in diagnosing lateral type lumbar canal stenosis.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
