Fluid in Lumbar Facet Joints and Spondylolisthesis
Author Information
Author(s): Caterini R., Mancini F., Bisicchia S., Maglione P., Farsetti P.
Primary Institution: Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”
Hypothesis
Is there a correlation between increased fluid in lumbar facet joints and degenerative spondylolisthesis?
Conclusion
There is a statistical correlation between increased fluid in the lumbar facet joints and degenerative spondylolisthesis.
Supporting Evidence
- 15 patients had exaggerated fluid in the lumbar facets on the axial T2 MRI (28.8%).
- Radiographic signs of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis were observed in 12 patients (23.1%).
- Increased fluid in the lumbar facet joints was present on the supine axial T2 MRI in 7 patients (13.4%).
- A total of 15 patients in the study had exaggerated fluid in the lumbar facet joints on the axial T2 MRI.
Takeaway
Doctors found that extra fluid in the joints of the lower back can be linked to a condition where the spine slips out of place.
Methodology
The study analyzed MRI and radiographs of 52 patients with low back pain to evaluate fluid in facet joints and its correlation with lumbar instability.
Potential Biases
The study had strict exclusion criteria to limit bias.
Limitations
The study did not calculate the sample size, which is difficult due to the lack of reported incidence of fluid in lumbar facet joints.
Participant Demographics
The cohort included 22 males and 30 females with a mean age of 64.7 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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