Influence of Disc Degeneration on the Development of Disc Prolapse

Purpose: The present clinical-radiological study examines retrospectively the relation between lumbar disc prolapse and degenerations like chondrosis and spondylosis. Method: Firstly the relation between disc prolapse and chondrosis was examined. 44 patients with disc prolapse and chondrosis in actual MRI scans in the same segment were recruited in our clinic. By regarding older MRI scans, we could find out which finding was first to occur. Concerning the second question, we followed patients with spondylosis to see if they could progress to a disc prolapse. Results: In 67% of our cases with disc prolapse and chondrosis, a chondrosis was seen before the disc prolapse. More than a half had had a spondylosis and a chondrosis in the same segment before the herniation. Only 33% of our cases showed a prolapse before chondrosis. Conclusion: Concerning patients with disc prolapse and chondrosis in the same segment, chondrosis was seen before the herniation in most cases. Also patients with spondylosis progress to a herniation. A causal relation between both radiological findings is not possible. In a future study it must be analysed with statistical tests whether these results are generally valid.