The vertebral column Vertebral column The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy is the most important anatomical and functional axis Axis The second cervical vertebra. Vertebral Column: Anatomy of the body, consisting of 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, and 5 lumbar vertebrae Lumbar vertebrae Vertebrae in the region of the lower back below the thoracic vertebrae and above the sacral vertebrae. Vertebral Column: Anatomy and limited cranially by the skull Skull The skull (cranium) is the skeletal structure of the head supporting the face and forming a protective cavity for the brain. The skull consists of 22 bones divided into the viscerocranium (facial skeleton) and the neurocranium. Skull: Anatomy and caudally by the sacrum Sacrum Five fused vertebrae forming a triangle-shaped structure at the back of the pelvis. It articulates superiorly with the lumbar vertebrae, inferiorly with the coccyx, and anteriorly with the ilium of the pelvis. The sacrum strengthens and stabilizes the pelvis. Vertebral Column: Anatomy. The vertebral column Vertebral column The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy provides structural support and protection for the spinal cord Spinal cord The spinal cord is the major conduction pathway connecting the brain to the body; it is part of the CNS. In cross section, the spinal cord is divided into an H-shaped area of gray matter (consisting of synapsing neuronal cell bodies) and a surrounding area of white matter (consisting of ascending and descending tracts of myelinated axons). Spinal Cord: Anatomy, which is housed in the spinal canal Spinal Canal The cavity within the spinal column through which the spinal cord passes. Spinal Cord Injuries. The vertebral column Vertebral column The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy and the spinal cord Spinal cord The spinal cord is the major conduction pathway connecting the brain to the body; it is part of the CNS. In cross section, the spinal cord is divided into an H-shaped area of gray matter (consisting of synapsing neuronal cell bodies) and a surrounding area of white matter (consisting of ascending and descending tracts of myelinated axons). Spinal Cord: Anatomy may be affected by various diseases, in which different imaging methods are important for correct diagnosis and management. Radiographs and CT scans are useful in evaluating bony structures, especially in excluding fractures and checking hardware. Additionally, CT scans also provide information on soft tissues. MRI is performed for evaluation of tumors, infection, disk herniations, and other soft tissue Soft Tissue Soft Tissue Abscess abnormalities including acute ligamentous or spinal cord Spinal cord The spinal cord is the major conduction pathway connecting the brain to the body; it is part of the CNS. In cross section, the spinal cord is divided into an H-shaped area of gray matter (consisting of synapsing neuronal cell bodies) and a surrounding area of white matter (consisting of ascending and descending tracts of myelinated axons). Spinal Cord: Anatomy injury.
Last updated: 9 May, 2022
Before the advent of CT and MRI, X-ray X-ray Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source. Pulmonary Function Tests imaging was widely used to study the bones of the spine Spine The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy.
Views and spine Spine The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy structures:
Spinal X-ray X-ray Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source. Pulmonary Function Tests showing vertebral lines
Image: “ X-ray X-ray Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source. Pulmonary Function Tests of vertebral lines” by Mikael Häggström. License: CC0Lateral view of vertebral column Vertebral column The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy showing the normal curvature (cervical and lumbar lordosis; thoracic kyphosis Kyphosis Deformities of the spine characterized by an exaggerated convexity of the vertebral column. The forward bending of the thoracic region usually is more than 40 degrees. This deformity sometimes is called round back or hunchback. Osteoporosis)
Image by Lecturio.Left: Lateral cervical
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests showing normal alignment at C1–2, no significant prevertebral
edema
Edema
Edema is a condition in which excess serous fluid accumulates in the body cavity or interstitial space of connective tissues. Edema is a symptom observed in several medical conditions. It can be categorized into 2 types, namely, peripheral (in the extremities) and internal (in an organ or body cavity).
Edema, appropriate alignment of the cervical
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy, and normal interspinous distances
Right: Lateral cervical
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy
x-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests showing C1 (blue outline) and C2 (red outline)
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests of thoracic
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy (
frontal
Frontal
The bone that forms the frontal aspect of the skull. Its flat part forms the forehead, articulating inferiorly with the nasal bone and the cheek bone on each side of the face.
Skull: Anatomy on the left and lateral on the right):
The
frontal
Frontal
The bone that forms the frontal aspect of the skull. Its flat part forms the forehead, articulating inferiorly with the nasal bone and the cheek bone on each side of the face.
Skull: Anatomy view demonstrates no significant scoliotic curvature, a normal
vertebral body
Vertebral body
Main portion of the vertebra which bears majority of the weight.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy height, and a normal-appearing
trachea
Trachea
The trachea is a tubular structure that forms part of the lower respiratory tract. The trachea is continuous superiorly with the larynx and inferiorly becomes the bronchial tree within the lungs. The trachea consists of a support frame of semicircular, or C-shaped, rings made out of hyaline cartilage and reinforced by collagenous connective tissue.
Trachea: Anatomy. The lateral view is slightly limited because of overexposure, which prevents complete visualization of the lower thoracic
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy, although the visualized vertebral elements are unremarkable.
Lumbosacral
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests:
The lumbosacral area is shown in an anteroposterior
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests (A) and a lateral
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests (B).
These images demonstrate normal sacroiliac joints, appropriate spinal alignment, and no height loss of the intervertebral disk space.
A CT scan can evaluate both bone Bone Bone is a compact type of hardened connective tissue composed of bone cells, membranes, an extracellular mineralized matrix, and central bone marrow. The 2 primary types of bone are compact and spongy. Bones: Structure and Types and soft tissue Soft Tissue Soft Tissue Abscess structures.
Anatomy:
Different planes can be used:
CT image viewing planes:
The slices through this model demonstrate how
axial
Axial
Computed Tomography (CT),
coronal
Coronal
Computed Tomography (CT), and
sagittal
Sagittal
Computed Tomography (CT) images correlate with the patient’s anatomy.
Spinal CT views:
Right (a) and left (b) parasagittal reconstructed CT image of the lumbar
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy
(c):
Axial
Axial
Computed Tomography (CT) CT image at L5 level, which shows a displaced
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures of the left/inferior
vertebral body
Vertebral body
Main portion of the vertebra which bears majority of the weight.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy of C5.
Coronal Coronal Computed Tomography (CT) view of the spine Spine The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy
Image: “Figure 1” by Clemente, M.A., et al AL Amyloidosis. License: CC BY 4.0, cropped by Lecturio.MRI provides superior visualization of intraspinal anatomy.
Anatomy:
On T2-weighted images T2-Weighted Images Imaging of the Head and Brain:
Different planes can be used:
Intervertebral disk
Image: “ Intervertebral disc Intervertebral disc Any of the 23 plates of fibrocartilage found between the bodies of adjacent vertebrae. Vertebral Column: Anatomy” by Phil Schatz. License: CC BY 4.0Sagittal Sagittal Computed Tomography (CT) T1-weighted MRI of the cervical spine Spine The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy
Image: “Possible gabapentin Gabapentin A cyclohexane-gamma-aminobutyric acid derivative that is used for the treatment of partial seizures; neuralgia; and restless legs syndrome. Second-Generation Anticonvulsant Drugs and ketamine Ketamine A cyclohexanone derivative used for induction of anesthesia. Its mechanism of action is not well understood, but ketamine can block NMDA receptors (n-methyl-d-aspartate receptors) and may interact with sigma receptors. Intravenous Anesthetics interaction causing prolonged central nervous system Central nervous system The main information-processing organs of the nervous system, consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and meninges. Nervous System: Anatomy, Structure, and Classification depression during post-operative recovery following cervical laminoplasty: a case report” by Elyassi AR AR Aortic regurgitation (AR) is a cardiac condition characterized by the backflow of blood from the aorta to the left ventricle during diastole. Aortic regurgitation is associated with an abnormal aortic valve and/or aortic root stemming from multiple causes, commonly rheumatic heart disease as well as congenital and degenerative valvular disorders. Aortic Regurgitation, Long RP, Bejnarowicz RP, Schoneboom BA. License: CC BY 2.0Coronal Coronal Computed Tomography (CT) T2-weighted MRI of the cervical spine Spine The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum. Vertebral Column: Anatomy shows defective ossification Ossification The process of bone formation. Histogenesis of bone including ossification. Bones: Development and Ossification of vertebral bodies.
Image: “Significant traumatic atrophy Atrophy Decrease in the size of a cell, tissue, organ, or multiple organs, associated with a variety of pathological conditions such as abnormal cellular changes, ischemia, malnutrition, or hormonal changes. Cellular Adaptation of the spinal cord Spinal cord The spinal cord is the major conduction pathway connecting the brain to the body; it is part of the CNS. In cross section, the spinal cord is divided into an H-shaped area of gray matter (consisting of synapsing neuronal cell bodies) and a surrounding area of white matter (consisting of ascending and descending tracts of myelinated axons). Spinal Cord: Anatomy in connection with severe cervical vertebral body Vertebral body Main portion of the vertebra which bears majority of the weight. Vertebral Column: Anatomy hypoplasia Hypoplasia Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) in a boy with Larsen syndrome: a case report and review of the literature” by Al AL Amyloidosis Kaissi A, Altenhuber J, Grill F, Klaushofer K. License: CC BY 3.0
Axial
Axial
Computed Tomography (CT) T1-weighted MRI:
In this image, A points to a dorsal paravertebral
mass
Mass
Three-dimensional lesion that occupies a space within the breast
Imaging of the Breast and B points to
tumor
Tumor
Inflammation spread.
Tissue | T1-weighted images T1-Weighted Images Imaging of the Head and Brain | T2-weighted images T2-Weighted Images Imaging of the Head and Brain |
---|---|---|
Fluid (e.g., CSF) | Dark | Bright |
White matter White Matter The region of central nervous system that appears lighter in color than the other type, gray matter. It mainly consists of myelinated nerve fibers and contains few neuronal cell bodies or dendrites. Brown-Séquard Syndrome | Light gray | Dark gray |
Gray matter Gray matter Region of central nervous system that appears darker in color than the other type, white matter. It is composed of neuronal cell bodies; neuropil; glial cells and capillaries but few myelinated nerve fibers. Cerebral Cortex: Anatomy | Gray | Light gray |
Compression
Compression
Blunt Chest Trauma fractures:
A lateral thoracic
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy radiograph shows multiple severe
vertebral body
Vertebral body
Main portion of the vertebra which bears majority of the weight.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy
compression
Compression
Blunt Chest Trauma fractures (vertebra plana; small arrows) characteristic of
multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant condition of plasma cells (activated B lymphocytes) primarily seen in the elderly. Monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells results in cytokine-driven osteoclastic activity and excessive secretion of IgG antibodies.
Multiple Myeloma (among other etiologies). At T11 and T12 (open arrows), mild vertebral
sclerosis
Sclerosis
A pathological process consisting of hardening or fibrosis of an anatomical structure, often a vessel or a nerve.
Wilms Tumor is a result of treatment and healing.
X-ray X-ray Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source. Pulmonary Function Tests of burst fracture Fracture A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma. Overview of Bone Fractures of T12
Image: “Figure 1” by Akiki Alian. License: Public DomainSagittal Sagittal Computed Tomography (CT) CT of burst fracture Fracture A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma. Overview of Bone Fractures of T12
Image: “Figure 1” by Akiki Alian. License: Public DomainBurst
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures on CT:
Cross-sectional image shows burst
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures of T12 (arrow) and
spinal canal
Spinal Canal
The cavity within the spinal column through which the spinal cord passes.
Spinal Cord Injuries narrowing.
Jefferson
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures:
a: Open-mouth
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests shows lateral
subluxation
Subluxation
Radial Head Subluxation (Nursemaid’s Elbow) of C1–C2 (arrow).
b:
Axial
Axial
Computed Tomography (CT) CT scan with
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures on the left side (arrow)
Jefferson
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures on CT:
Multiple fractures involving the anterior and posterior arches of C1 are seen on
axial
Axial
Computed Tomography (CT) (a) and
coronal
Coronal
Computed Tomography (CT) (b) CT scans.
Radiography shows dens
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures on C2 (type III Hangman’s
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures):
There is also significant anterior
subluxation
Subluxation
Radial Head Subluxation (Nursemaid’s Elbow) of C2 on the C3
vertebral body
Vertebral body
Main portion of the vertebra which bears majority of the weight.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy.
Chance
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures on CT (images at the time of injury):
Images reveal a Chance-type injury with an associated L2
compression
Compression
Blunt Chest Trauma
fracture
Fracture
A fracture is a disruption of the cortex of any bone and periosteum and is commonly due to mechanical stress after an injury or accident. Open fractures due to trauma can be a medical emergency. Fractures are frequently associated with automobile accidents, workplace injuries, and trauma.
Overview of Bone Fractures of the right
vertebral body
Vertebral body
Main portion of the vertebra which bears majority of the weight.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy (a), a horizontal split of the right L2 pedicle (b), and the
splitting
Splitting
Defense Mechanisms and distraction of the left L2 transverse processes, left L2 pedicle, and L2 middle column (c), resulting in asymmetrical
kyphoscoliosis
Kyphoscoliosis
Osteomalacia and Rickets.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis
Displacement of a vertebra forward in relation to the vertebra below
Back Pain of L5 on
S1
S1
Heart Sounds on radiography:
Lateral
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests showing disruption of the center line and anterior
displacement
Displacement
The process by which an emotional or behavioral response that is appropriate for one situation appears in another situation for which it is inappropriate.
Defense Mechanisms of the lumbar
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy over sacral vertebrae
Spondylolysis on X-ray X-ray Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source. Pulmonary Function Tests:
A break in the pars interarticularis (arrow) with associated anterior spondylolisthesis Spondylolisthesis Displacement of a vertebra forward in relation to the vertebra below Back Pain
Image: “Image-guided lumbar facet joint infiltration in nonradicular low back pain Pain An unpleasant sensation induced by noxious stimuli which are detected by nerve endings of nociceptive neurons. Pain: Types and Pathways” by Chaturvedi A, Chaturvedi S, Sivasankar R. License: CC BY 2.0, cropped by Lecturio.Lumbar spondylolysis in MRI:
Note the effusion within the pars defects and within the adjacent facet joints.
Disk
herniation
Herniation
Omphalocele on MRI:
T2-weighted MRI showing L5–
S1
S1
Heart Sounds disk
herniation
Herniation
Omphalocele into the
spinal canal
Spinal Canal
The cavity within the spinal column through which the spinal cord passes.
Spinal Cord Injuries and degenerative disk changes (loss of T2 signal intensity and loss of disk-space height)
Bilateral sacroiliitis
Bilateral Sacroiliitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis on radiography (arrows):
There is subchondral
sclerosis
Sclerosis
A pathological process consisting of hardening or fibrosis of an anatomical structure, often a vessel or a nerve.
Wilms Tumor of the iliac
bone
Bone
Bone is a compact type of hardened connective tissue composed of bone cells, membranes, an extracellular mineralized matrix, and central bone marrow. The 2 primary types of bone are compact and spongy.
Bones: Structure and Types, joint surface irregularities, which include some
erosions
Erosions
Corneal Abrasions, Erosion, and Ulcers on both sides, and joint space narrowing of the hips.
Sacroiliitis
Sacroiliitis
Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint. It is characterized by lower back pain, especially upon walking, fever, uveitis; psoriasis; and decreased range of motion. Many factors are associated with and cause sacroiliitis including infection; injury to spine, lower back, and pelvis; degenerative arthritis; and pregnancy.
Ankylosing Spondylitis on MRI:
a: Arrows point to focal spots of
bone marrow
Bone marrow
The soft tissue filling the cavities of bones. Bone marrow exists in two types, yellow and red. Yellow marrow is found in the large cavities of large bones and consists mostly of fat cells and a few primitive blood cells. Red marrow is a hematopoietic tissue and is the site of production of erythrocytes and granular leukocytes. Bone marrow is made up of a framework of connective tissue containing branching fibers with the frame being filled with marrow cells.
Bone Marrow: Composition and Hematopoiesis
edema
Edema
Edema is a condition in which excess serous fluid accumulates in the body cavity or interstitial space of connective tissues. Edema is a symptom observed in several medical conditions. It can be categorized into 2 types, namely, peripheral (in the extremities) and internal (in an organ or body cavity).
Edema (BME) on the right sacroiliac (SI) joint
b: Arrows show active
sacroiliitis
Sacroiliitis
Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint. It is characterized by lower back pain, especially upon walking, fever, uveitis; psoriasis; and decreased range of motion. Many factors are associated with and cause sacroiliitis including infection; injury to spine, lower back, and pelvis; degenerative arthritis; and pregnancy.
Ankylosing Spondylitis with bilateral high signal in the joint space and BME on the sacral side of the SI joint
c: Fat-saturated T1-weighted image showing bilateral
synovitis
Synovitis
Inflammation of the synovial membrane.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and active lesion on the left side (arrows)
Metastasis
Metastasis
The transfer of a neoplasm from one organ or part of the body to another remote from the primary site.
Grading, Staging, and Metastasis seen as an osteolytic lesion on
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests:
Thoracic
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy
X-ray
X-ray
Penetrating electromagnetic radiation emitted when the inner orbital electrons of an atom are excited and release radiant energy. X-ray wavelengths range from 1 pm to 10 nm. Hard x-rays are the higher energy, shorter wavelength x-rays. Soft x-rays or grenz rays are less energetic and longer in wavelength. The short wavelength end of the x-ray spectrum overlaps the gamma rays wavelength range. The distinction between gamma rays and x-rays is based on their radiation source.
Pulmonary Function Tests in a patient with
hepatocellular carcinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) typically arises in a chronically diseased or cirrhotic liver and is the most common primary liver cancer. Diagnosis may include ultrasound, CT, MRI, biopsy (if inconclusive imaging), and/or biomarkers.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) and Liver Metastases showing osteolytic left L1 lesion with missing pedicle (blue line)
Metastatic disease (affecting the
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy) on MRI:
MRI
sagittal
Sagittal
Computed Tomography (CT) T1-weighted image reveals scattered foci of decreased signal intensity reflective of metastatic disease affecting the cervical and thoracic
spine
Spine
The human spine, or vertebral column, is the most important anatomical and functional axis of the human body. It consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae and is limited cranially by the skull and caudally by the sacrum.
Vertebral Column: Anatomy regions.
MRI is the study of choice for spinal tumors.
Meningioma
Meningioma
Meningiomas are slow-growing tumors that arise from the meninges of the brain and spinal cord. The vast majority are benign. These tumors commonly occur in individuals with a history of high doses of skull radiation, head trauma, and neurofibromatosis 2.
Meningioma on MRI:
A and B: The T1- and
T2-weighted images
T2-Weighted Images
Imaging of the Head and Brain both show slightly lower intensity than that of the cord, revealing a
homogeneous
Homogeneous
Imaging of the Spleen lesion.
C:
Contrast-enhanced MRI
Contrast-enhanced MRI
Imaging of the Head and Brain shows the high
homogeneous
Homogeneous
Imaging of the Spleen signal intensity of the
tumor
Tumor
Inflammation.
Vertebral
osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone that results from the spread of microorganisms from the blood (hematogenous), nearby infected tissue, or open wounds (non-hematogenous). Infections are most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
Osteomyelitis on MRI:
Enhanced T1-weighted MRI showing vertebral
osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone that results from the spread of microorganisms from the blood (hematogenous), nearby infected tissue, or open wounds (non-hematogenous). Infections are most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
Osteomyelitis involving the L1 and L2 vertebral bodies. Of note, the relative sparing of the intervertebral disk space can typically be seen with mycobacterial infection.
(a):
Sagittal
Sagittal
Computed Tomography (CT) view
(b):
Axial
Axial
Computed Tomography (CT) view
Epidural abscess
Epidural abscess
Circumscribed collections of suppurative material occurring in the spinal or intracranial epidural space. The majority of epidural abscesses occur in the spinal canal and are associated with osteomyelitis of a vertebral body; analgesia, epidural; and other conditions. Clinical manifestations include local and radicular pain, weakness, sensory loss, urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence. Cranial epidural abscesses are usually associated with osteomyelitis of a cranial bone, sinusitis, or otitis media.
Retropharyngeal Abscess on MRI: L4–5
infectious
Infectious
Febrile Infant spondylitis in a male patient:
A:
Sagittal
Sagittal
Computed Tomography (CT) T1- and T2-weighted and contrast MRI shows L4–5
epidural abscess
Epidural abscess
Circumscribed collections of suppurative material occurring in the spinal or intracranial epidural space. The majority of epidural abscesses occur in the spinal canal and are associated with osteomyelitis of a vertebral body; analgesia, epidural; and other conditions. Clinical manifestations include local and radicular pain, weakness, sensory loss, urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence. Cranial epidural abscesses are usually associated with osteomyelitis of a cranial bone, sinusitis, or otitis media.
Retropharyngeal Abscess with
compression
Compression
Blunt Chest Trauma of neural elements.
B: After treatment,
sagittal
Sagittal
Computed Tomography (CT) T2-weighted MRI at 6-month follow-up demonstrates the disappearance of the
abscess
Abscess
Accumulation of purulent material in tissues, organs, or circumscribed spaces, usually associated with signs of infection.
Chronic Granulomatous Disease.
C:
Sagittal
Sagittal
Computed Tomography (CT) CT reveals L4–5 disk space narrowing leading to spontaneous fusion.
MRI of
spinal cord
Spinal cord
The spinal cord is the major conduction pathway connecting the brain to the body; it is part of the CNS. In cross section, the spinal cord is divided into an H-shaped area of gray matter (consisting of synapsing neuronal cell bodies) and a surrounding area of white matter (consisting of ascending and descending tracts of myelinated axons).
Spinal Cord: Anatomy injury:
Spinal cord
Spinal cord
The spinal cord is the major conduction pathway connecting the brain to the body; it is part of the CNS. In cross section, the spinal cord is divided into an H-shaped area of gray matter (consisting of synapsing neuronal cell bodies) and a surrounding area of white matter (consisting of ascending and descending tracts of myelinated axons).
Spinal Cord: Anatomy transection at the T6 injury level (arrow) noted in a patient who had a fall from 300 feet.
Tumefactive multiple
sclerosis
Sclerosis
A pathological process consisting of hardening or fibrosis of an anatomical structure, often a vessel or a nerve.
Wilms Tumor on MRI:
C3 cervical intramedullary lesion (arrow) that is
hyperintense
Hyperintense
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) on
T2-weighted images
T2-Weighted Images
Imaging of the Head and Brain (A), is isointense on
T1-weighted images
T1-Weighted Images
Imaging of the Head and Brain (B), and has areas of contrast enhancement (C).