Work

The Value of Indices and Measurements Used for Assessing Functional X-Rays of the Cervical Spine in Clinical Practice

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Functional X-ray imaging of the cervical spine in flexion and extension remains a fundamental, objective method for mobility assessment. However, there remains no consensus on how to perform the measurements or which indicators are most useful in clinical practice. Methods: This study included 288 participants (197 female and 91 male); these included patients without CDD signs or with first-degree cervical spine CDD according to the Kellgren–Lawrence criteria. Cobb angle C2–C7, HDI, ROM, CIF, and CIE were measured. Results: The most significant correlations were observed for HDI, and the strongest correlations were between CIF measurements. The greatest mobility was noted for the centrally located segments of the cervical spine, particularly at the C4–C5 level. Conclusions: HDI appears to be the most reliable parameter for characterizing the mobility of the cervical spine. It is precise and has the highest number of correlations with other measurements, but it is very time-consuming. Cobb angle C2–C7 combines ease of performance with good diagnostic value.

Source: Journal of Clinical Medicine

DOI: 10.3390/jcm14175995

Authors: Marcin Janusz Łubiński, Piotr Kowalski, Filip Karol Kwiatkowski, Jolanta Ewa Kujawa, Gabriela Anna Figas, Agata Joanna Majos

Institutions: Medical University of Lodz, Wojskowy Instytut Medycyny Lotniczej

Language: English

Topic: Cervical and Thoracic Myelopathy

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137