X-ray measurement and analysis on parameters of intervertebral foramen in the lower lumbar spine associated with the superior articular process

Abstract

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to supplement the database of intervertebral foramen by measuring the parameters of the lower lumbar spine related to the articular process of the X-ray, which could lay a theoretical foundation for the individualized surgery of transforaminal endoscopic spine technique (TEST). Methods: Anteroposterior and lateral X-rays of the lumbar spine from 104 adults (50 male and 54 female) who met the measurement criteria were selected. The height and width of the intervertebral foramen, the height of the intervertebral space, the length from the superior articular process (SAP) to the lower edge of the upper lumbar pedicle, and the length from SAP to posterior margin of superior vertebra posterior edge were measured.  Results:  There was no significant difference in the shape of the lower lumbar intervertebral foramen between normal adult men and women. There were significant differences in parameters related to the lower lumbar intervertebral foramen between the age group from 40 to 60 and above 60, and especially those related to the SAP.  Conclusion: Parameters of the lower lumbar intervertebral foramen were obtained from 104 normal adults, which supplemented the lumbar intervertebral foramen database. After the age of 60, the morphology of the lower lumbar intervertebral foramen was significantly changed in normal adults, and especially parameters related to the SAP. This study provided a reference for individualized minimally invasive surgery using TEST for elderly people over 60 years of age. Keywords : Transforaminal endoscopic spine technique; Superior articular process; Intervertebral foramen; Lower lumbar spine; X-ray; Age