Published in:
01-12-2015 | Original Article
Relationship between modic changes and facet joint degeneration in the cervical spine
Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 12/2015
Login to get accessAbstract
Purpose
Given that the disc moves simultaneously with facet joints, there would be a relationship between Modic changes and facet joint degeneration in the cervical spine. However, there is no literature investigating the relationship. The purpose is to evaluate the relationship between Modic changes and facet joint degeneration in the cervical spine.
Methods
Ninety-eight patients underwent both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance images (MRI) of the cervical spine. They consisted of fifty-one males and forty-eight females and their mean age was 60.1 years (ranged from 40 years to 81 years). We compared the degree of facet joint degeneration based on CTs with Modic changes based on MRIs from C2–C3 to C6–C7. The degree of facet joint degeneration was classified into four categories and Modic changes were classified into four types. Disc degeneration was determined with Miyazaki’s grading system.
Results
Facet joint degeneration was most common at C2–C3 and C4–C5 and rarest at C6–C7. Modic changes were most common at C2–C3 and rarest at C6–C7. However, there was no relationship between facet joint degeneration and any Modic changes at the same level. However, the presence of facet joint degeneration and the presence of Modic change are common in high grades of disc degeneration at the same level of the cervical spine.
Conclusion
Modic changes and facet joint degeneration are most common at C2–C3 in the cervical spine. However, there were no relationships between the presence of Modic changes and facet joint degeneration at the same level of the cervical spine.