Measurement of vertebral foraminal dimensions using three-dimensional computerized tomography.
The dimensions of lumbar intervertebral foramina were measured in cadaveric spines using three-dimensional computerized tomography. Six different image reconstruction protocols were used. The results were compared with measurements of the same foramina using calipers after dissection. All the three-dimensional computerized tomographic measurements underestimated the true foraminal dimensions. The best agreement, as well as the best images, were obtained using 4/3 slices and a reconstruction threshold of 300 Hounsfield Units. This method is not recommended for measurement of foraminal dimensions. However, there may be a use in assessment and planning surgical management.
Smith
G A
GA
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Aspden
R M
RM
Porter
R W
RW
D000368:Aged; D000886:Anthropometry / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed