Pitfalls and Unusual Findings in Computed Tomography of the Lumbar Spine

Abstract

A number of interesting and often unusual computed tomographic (CT) abnormalities that were seen in the course of a large series of CT studies of the lumbar spine are presented. These include conjoined nerve roots, extremely gas in the canal, extremely lateralized disk herniations, “vacuum” disks, and Schmorl nodes. In the postoperative patient, extradural hematoma. iatrogenic vacuum disk, and iatrogenic pseudonieningocele can be encountered.