Are Facet Orientation and Tropism Risk Factors for Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy? A Retrospective Study in a Chinese Population

Abstract

\n Background\n\nFacet parameters, such as facet orientation (FO) and tropism (FT) are thought to be predisposing factors for pathological changes in the lumbar spine. This study aimed to explore the association between facet parameters and cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) on 3-dimentional views.\nMethods\n\nA total of 226 patients with single-level CSR and 182 normal control participants were included. FO, FT and the incidence of FT (defined as FT\u2009≥\u20097) based on reconstructed CT images were measured. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to investigate the association between facet joint parameters and the incidence of CSR. The Pearson Chi-square test was used to find out the relationship between the side of herniation and facet joint parameters in CSR patients.\nResults\n\nAxial FT of CSR group was significantly larger compared to control group at each spinal level, while sagittal except C5/6 and coronal FT shown not. The differences of incidence of axial FT at all levels between groups were statistically significant, as well as incidence of sagittal FT at C4/5 and C5/6. Incidence of axial FT with respect to all levels was significantly associated with CSR, and incidence of sagittal FT only at C4/5 and C5/6 was associated with CSR. The proportion between the left and right side of greater FO was significantly different on axial view.\nConclusion\n\nAxial and sagittal FT but not FO were associated with CSR, and axial FT might exert more dominant function on the development of CSR. Moreover, CSR might be more vulnerable to more severe axial FT, which should be paid more attention. The side of herniation might prefer the side of greater axial FO.