Modic changes
Pronunciation: MOH-dik
Signal intensity changes in vertebral endplates and adjacent bone marrow on MRI, classified into three types based on appearance.
Full Definition
Modic changes are distinctive signal intensity alterations visible on MRI that affect the vertebral endplates and adjacent bone marrow, first described by Dr. Michael Modic. Type I changes show decreased T1 and increased T2 signal intensity, representing edema and inflammation. Type II changes display increased T1 and T2 signal intensity, indicating fatty marrow replacement. Type III changes show decreased signal on both T1 and T2 sequences, representing sclerosis. These changes are often associated with disc degeneration and may correlate with low back pain, making them important considerations in spine surgery planning.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the type (I, II, or III) and location when documenting Modic changes.
In Context
- "MRI demonstrated Type I Modic changes at L5-S1 suggesting active inflammation." — radiology report
- "The presence of Modic changes Type II indicated chronic degenerative processes." — preoperative assessment