Positional MRI can play an important role in evaluating patients with spondylolysis and isthmic spondylolisthesis because all three types of instabilities are common and associated with radicular pain, according to a study published in Spine.
Researchers examined 140 patients with spondylolysis identified by MRI. The researchers also used a positional MRI to assess the patients' conditions. They found 15 patients who had anterior instability, 35 who had angular instability and 34 who had posterior instability.
In some cases, all forms could be found together. There was no instability found in 76 patients and radicular symptoms were found more often in patients with one or more instabilities compared with patients without instability, according to the report.
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In some cases, all forms could be found together. There was no instability found in 76 patients and radicular symptoms were found more often in patients with one or more instabilities compared with patients without instability, according to the report.
Related Articles on Spine Surgery:
Study Compares Morbidity and Mortality of Anterior and Posterior Spinal Fusions
Study: BMP Safe in Posterolateral Spine Surgery Application
Study: Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy Safe for Patients