Title

Lumbar Facet Tropism: A Comprehensive Review.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2017

Publication Title

World Neurosurg

Keywords

Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Lumbar Vertebrae; Lumbosacral Region; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Spondylolisthesis; Tropism; Zygapophyseal Joint

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Scattered reports exist in the medical literature regarding facet tropism. However, this finding has had mixed conclusions regarding its origin and impact on the normal spine.

METHODS: We performed a literature review of the anatomy, embryology, biomechanics, and pathology related to lumbar facet tropism.

RESULTS: Facet tropism is most commonly found at L4-L5 vertebral segments and there is some evidence that this condition may lead to facet degenerative spondylolisthesis, intervertebral disc disease, and other degenerative conditions.

CONCLUSION: Long-term analyses of patients are necessary to elucidate relationships between associated findings and facet tropism. In addition, a universally agreed definition that is more precise should be developed for future investigative studies.

Clinical Institute

Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)

Department

Neurosciences

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