Pattern of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Lumbar Spine Pathologies and its Correlation with Demographic Variables in Rivers State

• Published in: Journal of clinical and diagnostic research Vol. 15; no. 6; pp. TC05 - TC09
• Main Authors: Ogolodom, Michael Promise, Ugwu, Anthony Chukwuka, Akosile, Christopher O, Mbaba, Awajimijan N
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited 01.06.2021
• Subjects: disability; low back; pathology; spinal
• ISSN: 2249-782X; 0973-709X
• DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2021/48984.14980

Introduction: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) currently is an excellent imaging modality of choice for the demonstration of pathologies of the lumbar spine and the intervertebral disc. A sound knowledge of the common pathologies of the lumbar spine in our setting will assist clinicians and radiologists in making accurate diagnosis. Aim: To determine the type and distribution of MRI findings in lumbar spine pathologies and its demographic correlation in Rivers State. Materials and Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study carried out among all symptomatic and asymptomatic patients who were referred for lumbar spine MRI at some selected Imaging Diagnostics Centres in Rivers State, from May 2020 to November 2020. The lumbar spine MRI examinations were performed using 0.35 Tesla MRI machines with both planar surface and multicoil phased array. The patients were evaluated for disabilities using the Nurick grading classifications. Data obtained were analysed using both descriptive (mean, deviation, frequency and percentage) and inferential (Pearson’s Correlation) statistical tools. The level of statistically significance was set at p <0.05. Results: Out of 151 patients that were included in this study, majority 78 (51.7%) of the patients were within the age group of 40-59 years with an overall mean age of 52.51±14 years. The majority 114 (75.50%) of the patients had single pathology. Among those that had single pathology, a greater proportion had spondylosis 65 (43.05%). A greater proportion 73 (48.34%) of the patients had single level of spinal involvement with lumbar vertebra four (L4) commonly affected in 26 (17.22%). Out of 151 patients, majority 49 (32.45%) had Nurick grade II and the least 7 (4.64%) had Nurick grade V. Conclusion: Lumbar spine pathologies frequently involve the fourth lumbar vertebra and middle-aged males are commonly affected.