Pattern recognition of degenerative disorders in the lumbar spine. Guidelines to MR image interpretation.

Interpreting MR images of the lumbar spine remains a formidable diagnostic challenge, especially in patients with degenerative changes. What are the pertinent findings? Which abnormalities are clinically relevant? Which changes should be viewed as normal aging? The purpose of this presentation is to present a standardized 7-step approach towards interpreting MR images of the degenerative lumbar spine.