A Study Of Morphology, Prevalence And Clinical Importance Of Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra In The Population Of Coastal Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Low back ache is a common problem caused by stress and strain on the lumbosacral spine. The lumbosacral region of the spine plays a vital role in supporting body weight and maintaining posture by transferring it to the lower extremities. Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are prevalent spinal variations. LSTV can occur either when the fifth lumbar vertebra acquires sacral characteristics (sacralisation) or when the first sacral vertebra acquires lumbar characteristics (lumbarisation). These abnormalities have been associated with low back ache and early-onset disc degeneration in younger people.

Aim: To estimate the prevalence of LSTV in the population of coastal Andhra Pradesh and investigate the morphological characteristics of these transitional vertebrae, as well as their association with lower back ache.

Materials and methods: The present study, performed in the department of Anatomy, KIMS & RF medical college in Andhra Pradesh, India, involved analysing 80 dry human sacra (56 male and 26 female). The researchers examined morphological variations including sacralisation, lumbarisation, vertebral body count, dorsal and ventral sacral foramina count, sacral hiatus, and sacral cornua.

Results: The investigation revealed morphological variations in 8 specimens. Six sacra (7.5%) showed signs of fifth lumbar vertebra sacralisation, while two sacra (2.5%) exhibited first sacral vertebra lumbarisation. These findings suggest that the LSTV prevalence in the study population is 10%.

Conclusion: Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are frequent spinal anomalies that require precise identification and numbering of the affected segment. Substantial evidence connects these vertebrae to low back ache. Understanding LSTV is crucial for orthopaedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, radiologists, and physicians to ensure accurate diagnosis, appropriate procedural modifications, and prevention of errors during medical interventions.