Facet Fluid Sign and Segmental Instability of the Spine
Abstract
Introduction: Degenerative lumbar spine disease is prevalent, however, the criteria for instability are still debated. Objectives: To analyze the presence of the lumbar facet fluid sign as a criterion for segmental instability of the spine. Materials and Methods: Patients with chronic lumbar disease, who present facet hydrarthrosis on MRI and dynamic lumbar spine radiographs. The prevalence of sex, age, main symptomatology, and pain on unilateral or bilateral extension was investigated. Results: A total of 139 patients (62% women) were evaluated, with an average age of 50.8 years; the main reason for consultation was low back pain (76%). Sixtyfive percent reported pain in extension, with 35% reporting unilateral pain and 30% reporting bilateral pain. Fourteen percent had low-grade spondylolisthesis at L4-L5 and 7% at L5-S1. Hydrarthrosis was unilateral in 20% and bilateral in 80%; the most frequent level of hydrarthrosis was L4-L5 (58%). Six percent had only translational instability and 2% had mixed instability. 8% and 5%, respectively, had Modic I and Modic II changes. Conclusions: The presence of facet fluid is not a criterion for segmental instability of the spine, regardless of the level and localized segment, or the unilateral or bilateral lumbar facet presentation.Downloads
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