European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best diagnostic imaging method for low back pain. However, the technique is currently not utilized in its full capacity, often failing to depict painful intervertebral discs (IVDs), potentially due to the rough degeneration classification system used clinically today. MR image histograms, which reflect the IVD heterogeneity, may offer sensitive imaging biomarkers for IVD degeneration classification. This study investigates the feasibility of using histogram analysis as means of objective and continuous grading of IVD degeneration. ⋯ Histogram features correlated well with IVD degeneration, suggesting that IVD histogram analysis is a suitable tool for objective and continuous IVD degeneration classification. As histogram analysis revealed IVD heterogeneity, it may be a clinical tool for characterization of regional IVD degeneration effects. To elucidate the usefulness of histogram analysis in patient management, IVD histogram features between asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals needs to be compared.
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Stereoradiography imaging (SRI) is an accurate and reliable low-dose radiographic method. However, patients must remain motionless during image acquisition. Motion artifacts are frequently noted. The aims of the study were to determine the incidence of the SRI motion artifact and assess if motion during SRI acquisition affects radiographic measurements. ⋯ Level IV.
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The cross-sectional area and fat infiltration are accepted as standard parameters for quantitative and qualitative evaluation of muscle degeneration. However, they are time-consuming, which prevents them from being used in a clinical setting. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between lumbar muscle degeneration and spinal degenerative disorders, using lumbar indentation value (LIV) as quantitative and Goutallier classification as qualitative measures. ⋯ Lumbar muscle quantity and quality showed specific correlation with age and spine disorders. Additionally, LL can be predicted by the muscle quantity, but not the quality. These time-saving evaluation tools potentially accelerate the study of lumbar muscles. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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To optimize our standard full-spine radiography with respect to diagnostic quality and dose. ⋯ This study demonstrates that a low-dose full-spine radiograph can be performed in patients with idiopathic scoliosis without loss of image quality. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.