annular tear
A disruption in the fibrous outer ring (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disc that may cause pain or predispose to disc herniation.
Full Definition
An annular tear refers to a partial or complete disruption of the annulus fibrosus, the tough fibrous outer layer that surrounds the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc. These tears can be radial, circumferential, or transverse, and may result from degenerative changes, trauma, or repetitive stress. Annular tears are significant in spine surgery as they can be a source of discogenic pain and may progress to disc herniation if the nuclear material extrudes through the tear. Proper identification and documentation of annular tears is crucial for surgical planning and patient counseling.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from full disc herniation; annular tears may be present without nuclear material extrusion.
In Context
- "MRI revealed a high-intensity zone consistent with an annular tear at L4-L5." — radiology report
- "The patient's discogenic pain was attributed to the posterior annular tear identified on imaging." — surgical consultation note