MR image of the intervertebral disc following discectomy

Introduction. MRI of a group of 51 patients with clinical diagnosis of discopathy of the lumbar spine has been presented. Material and methods. The patients were subject to three MR examinations (before and 6 as well as 12 weeks after the surgery). This yielded the image of the intervertebral disc in discopathy and the healing processes following discectomy. Results. MRI of the intervertebral disc 6 weeks post surgery was unspecific with no difference between recurrent hernia and post-surgical scar. For a clear image of post-surgical pathology, enhanced MRI with Gd-DTPA contrast is required.