Several spine specialty societies have come together to create a new document of universally-accepted definitions for spine conditions.
The North American Spine Society, American Society of Spine Radiology and American Society of Neuroradiology collaborated on the "Lumbar Disc Nomenclature: Version 2.0" with updated recommendations from the 2001 document. The updates will be published in the November 2014 edition of The Spine Journal as well as online in Spine and the American Journal of Neuroradiology.
"While the primary focus of this document is to promote clear and consistent communication between clinicians and radiologists, it also has important implications for patients, family members, employers, insurers, researchers and others," said David F. Fardon, MD, of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and former NASS president. He is the document's lead author. "When patients and their families understand and have confidence in a universally-recognized diagnosis, including the medical terminology, they are able to actively participate in treatment decisions."
The document includes:
• A detailed discussion of imaging diagnostic categories and subcategories
• Extensive glossary for term reference
• Definitions used in discussing lumbar disc disease
• Updated illustrations and references
• Literature references
"By undertaking this arduous process and creating this universal language, these dedicated spine and radiology professionals will help millions of patients worldwide get appropriate and timely treatment," said Editor-in-Chief of The Spine Journal Eugene J. Carragee, MD, of Stanford University School of Medicine in Redwood City, Calif.