The value of noncontrast computed tomography (CT) in the diagnosis of herniated lumbar disc.

The authors compared the results of preoperative noncontrast CT-scan with surgical findings in 64 patients with lumbar disc prolapse. In 75% of cases CT gave full and proper diagnosis confirmed by surgery. In 12.5% the level of hernia was well established but its direction was different then found on surgery. In 3.1% of cases CT was false negative and false positive in 9.4%. The authors think, that if CT picture reveals the level of hernia which correlates with clinical symptomatology it is absolutely sufficient for planning surgery. In cases with divergence between CT picture and clinical findings, myelography should be performed for establishing a proper diagnosis.