[Disc degeneration and cervical instability].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate disc degeneration and segmental instability in the cervical spine by comparing the magnetic resonance imaging assessment of disc degeneration with conventional plain radiographic evaluation with cervical segmental instability.

METHODS

Two hundred sixty consecutive patients with suspected cervical spine disorders were analyzed for horizontal and angular displacements on lateral flexion and extension radiographs and disc degeneration on T(2)-weighted magnetic resonance images of the cervical vertebrae.

RESULTS

In all intervertebral levels, the grade of disc degeneration increased significantly (P < 0.01) with age. Cervical instability was identified in 151 segments (14.5%) and correlated with Grade 1 and Grade 2 degeneration in the intervertebral discs (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Cervical segmental instability may indicate early degeneration of intervertebral disc in the cervical vertebrae.