The diagnosis of an extruded prolapsed intervertebral disc is a contra-indication to chymonucleolysis. The authors tried to define the diagnosis by comparing clinical signs, radiculography and operative findings in 98 patients. There is no characteristic clinical sign. On radiculography, there is no pathognomonic sign of an extruded prolapsed intervertebral disc, which is difficult to distinguish from an extra-ligamentous prolapse. However, the image of compression or amputation situated above or below the disc, especially when it is irregular should make one strongly suspect the diagnosis.
Diagnosis, Differential Humans