[Clinical picture, diagnosis and treatment of intervertebral osteochondritis].

25 patients with intervertebral osteochondritis (11-cervical, 5-thoracic, 9-lumbar) at the age of 30-70 years are analysed. Clinical features of osteochondritis locafed in different segments of the spine, are described. The fact that at the early stages of it's development, the disease is "X-ray negative", is stressed. The radioisotopic examination of the spine is highly effective in diagnosis of early stages of infective-inflammatory process of the intervertebral disks. The roentgenological characteristics of different stages of the disease are provided. Conservative methods, including antibiotics, bedding, orthopaedic methods are most important in the treatment of intervertebral osteochondritis. Surgical treatment is indicated in case of spine compression and instability of a damaged segment of the spine. In case of a proper diagnosis and adequate treatment the outcome is favorable.