Assessment of lumbosacral fusion mass by angled radiography. Technical notes.
METHODS
Lumbosacral fusion masses were assessed by angled radiography.


OBJECTIVE
To introduce the use of the angled anteroposterior radiograph in the evaluation of the fusion mass at the lumbosacral region.


BACKGROUND
Determination of the presence and progress of the fusion mass at the lumbosacral junction may be difficult clinically and radiologically. Few studies regarding the use of the angled anteroposterior view of plain radiographs in evaluating L5-S1 fusion are available.


METHODS
The patient was placed in the supine position, and an angled view of the lumbosacral junction was obtained. Radiography of the angled anteroposterior view was performed with the x-ray beam oriented toward the cranial portion at 50 degrees to 55 degrees relative to the x-ray table.


RESULTS
The use of the angled view of the lumbosacral junction eliminates the superimposition of the L5 transverse process on the posterior part of the superior ala of the sacrum, widens the L5-S1 intertransverse space, and enhances direct visualization.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of the angled anteroposterior view on plain radiographs is recommended in the evaluation of the fusion status at L5-S1.
Ebraheim
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NA
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical College of Ohio, Toledo 10008, USA.
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D001175:Arthrography / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012447:Sacrum / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D013123:Spinal Fusion