Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society

The Korean Neurosurgical Society (대한신경외과학회)
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Dynamic Lumbar Spinal Stenosis : The Usefulness of Axial Loaded MRI in Preoperative Evaluation

  • Choi, Kyung-Chul (Department of Neurosurgery, Wooridul Spine Hospital) ;
  • Kim, Jin-Sung (Department of Neurosurgery, Wooridul Spine Hospital) ;
  • Jung, Byung-Joo (Department of Neurosurgery, Wooridul Spine Hospital) ;
  • Lee, Sang-Ho (Department of Neurosurgery, Wooridul Spine Hospital)
  • Published : 2009.09.28
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Abstract

Two cases of dynamic lumbar spinal stenosis were identified by the authors using axial loaded magnetic resonance image (MRI). In both cases, the patients presented with neurogenic claudication but MRI in decumbency showed no definite pathologic condition associated with their symptoms. In contrast, axial loaded MRI demonstrated constrictive spinal stenosis and a significantly decreased dural sac caused by epidural fat buckling and thickening of the ligamentum flavum in both cases. In the second case, a more prominent disc protrusion was also demonstrated compared with decumbent MRI. After decompressive surgery, both patients had satisfactory outcomes. Axial loaded MRI can therefore give decisive information in dynamic spinal disorders by allowing simulation of an upright position.

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