Partial Vertebral Duplication


Anteroposterior radiography depicts a typical supernumerary hemivertebra image positioned between the right L2 and L3 vertebral levels, resulting in convex right scoliotic curvature.



image
Coronal T1WI MR depicts a small left thoracic supernumerary hemivertebra image producing minimal convex left lower thoracic scoliosis.


TERMINOLOGY


Synonyms




• Supranumerary vertebra


Definitions




• Partial duplication of vertebral column → 1 or more supranumerary (“extra”) vertebra


IMAGING


General Features




• Best diagnostic clue
image Atypical scoliosis (sharply angulated, single curve, or focal) with 1 or more “extra” hemivertebra

• Location
image Thoracolumbar > cervical

• Size
image Hemivertebra is smaller than normal vertebra

• Morphology
image “Extra” hemivertebra frequently associated with focal scoliotic curvature


Radiographic Findings




• Radiography
image Supranumerary lateral hemivertebra with scoliosis


CT Findings




• Bone CT
image Supranumerary lateral hemivertebra


MR Findings




• T1WI
image Supranumerary lateral hemivertebra ± dysraphism, spinal cord anomalies

• T2WI
image Same as T1WI


Imaging Recommendations




• Best imaging tool
image Anteroposterior plain radiograph

• Protocol advice
image AP plain film for “counting” to localize abnormal vertebral level

image Long-cassette standing weight-bearing radiograph to quantitate scoliosis

image Multiplanar MR imaging to evaluate vertebral anatomy, assess for associated neurological abnormalities

image CT with 3D reconstruction: Excellent depiction of hemivertebra and scoliosis

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Oct 5, 2016 | Posted by in NEUROLOGICAL IMAGING | Comments Off on Partial Vertebral Duplication

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