Evaluation of degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine with reformatted and 3-dimensional computed tomography images.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the identification of degenerative lesions of the lumbar spine with multiplanar reformatted images and 3-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT).

METHODS: Fifty-three patients with degenerative spinal disease findings on lumbar CT scanning were reviewed in this retrospective study at the Department of Radiology, Medical Faculty, Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey between January 2006 to January 2009. Two-dimensional multiplanar reformatted and 3DCT images were obtained. First, the axial CT images, and then 2-dimensional multiplanar reformatted images (2DMPR) were evaluated. The findings seen on reformatted CT images that were not visualized, or visualized only in retrospect on axial images were recorded. Finally, the 3D images were evaluated by the same team. The results were again recorded in the same manner.

RESULTS: When 53 patients were taken into account, the 2DMPR provided better visualization of lateral neural foraminal stenosis in 62%, bulging of the disc in 32%, degenerative retrolisthesis in 15%, and spondylolysis in 15% as compared to axial images. The 3DCT images clearly revealed the presence of lateral neural foraminal stenosis in 41%, degenerative retrolisthesis in 13%, lateral spondylolisthesis in 15% as compared to axial and 2DMPR.

CONCLUSION: The 2DMPR and 3DCT images provide significant anatomic and diagnostic information not readily derived from axial CT. It is useful in detecting degenerative conditions of the spine and associated complications.