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ID 111145
Author
Jha, Subash C. Tokushima University
Fukuta, Shoji Tokushima University
Nagamachi, Akihiro Tokushima University
Keywords
High-intensity zone
Magnetic resonance images
Discography
Percutaneous endoscopic discectomy
Thermal annuloplasty
Content Type
Journal Article
Description
High-intensity zone (HIZ) was originally described as a high-intensity signal on T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images, located in the posterior annulus fibrosus, clearly separated from the nucleus pulposus. Among symptomatic patients with low back pain, HIZ is present in 28-59% of cases. In morphologically abnormal discs, high sensitivity and specificity of 81% and 79%, respectively, were reported for HIZs and concordant pain during discography. In contrast, another report indicated low rates. Although most papers reported high sensitivity and specificity for this relationship, it remains controversial. Regarding the pathology of HIZs, inflammatory granulation tissues are found at sites showing HIZs. Such inflammatory tissues produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, which sensitize the nociceptors within the disc and cause pain. An effective treatment for this condition is yet to be established. Recently, minimally invasive surgery using percutaneous endoscopic discectomy (PED) under local anesthesia was introduced. After removal of the degenerated disc material, the HIZ is identified with the endoscope and then coagulated and modulated with a bipolar radio pulse. This technique is called thermal annuloplasty. In conclusion, HIZs is an important sign of painful intervertebral disc disruption, if identified precisely based on factors such as location and intensity.
Journal Title
The Journal of Medical Investigation
ISSN
13496867
13431420
NCID
AA11166929
AA12022913
Publisher
Faculty of Medicine Tokushima University
Volume
63
Issue
1-2
Start Page
1
End Page
7
Sort Key
1
Published Date
2016-02
EDB ID
DOI (Published Version)
URL ( Publisher's Version )
FullText File
language
eng
TextVersion
Publisher
departments
University Hospital
Medical Sciences