A novel classification system of lumbar disc degeneration

The Pfirrmann and modified Pfirrmann grading systems are currently used to classify lumbar disc degeneration. These systems, however, do not incorporate variables that have been associated with lumbar disc degeneration, including Modic changes, a high intensity zone, and a significant reduction in disc height. A system that incorporates these variables that is easy to apply may be useful for research and clinical purposes. A grading system was developed that incorporates disc structure and brightness, presence or absence of Modic changes, presence or absence of a high intensity zone, and reduction in disc height (disc height less than 5 mm). MRI of 300 lumbar discs in 60 patients were analyzed twice by two neurosurgeons. Intra and inter-observer reliabilities were assessed by calculating Cohen’s κ values. There were 156 grade zero (“normal”), 50 grade one, 57 grade two, 26 grade three, 10 grade four, and one grade five (“worst”) discs. Inter-observer reliability was substantial (κ = 0.66 to 0.77) for disc brightness/structure, Modic changes, and disc height. Inter-observer reliability was moderate (κ = 0.41) for high intensity zone. Intra-observer reliability was moderate to excellent (κ = 0.53 to 0.94) in all categories. Agreement on the total grade between reviewers occurred 71% of the time and a difference of one grade occurred in an additional 25% of cases. Lumbar disc degeneration can be graded reliably by this novel system. The advantage of this system is that it incorporates disc brightness/structure, Modic changes, high intensity zone, and a rigid definition of loss of disc height. This system might be useful in research studies evaluating disc degeneration. Further studies are required to demonstrate possible clinical utility in predicting outcomes after spinal treatments such as fusion.