Herniated nucleus pulposus is a condition in which part or all of the soft, gelatinous central portion of an intervertebral disk is forced through a weakened part of the disk, resulting in back pain and nerve root irritation.
What causes herniation of nucleus pulposus?
The most common cause of a cervical herniated nucleus pulposus is gradual degeneration of the disc, attenuation (weakening) of the posterior annulus fibrosis, and subsequent protrusion of the nucleus pulposus into the spinal canal causing compression of the nerve root.
What is another name for herniated nucleus pulposus?
(Herniated Disk; Ruptured Disk; Prolapsed Intervertebral Disk)
What is a herniated disk describe what is compressed by a herniated nucleus pulposus?
A herniated disc is a condition affecting the spine in which the annulus fibrosus is damaged enabling the nucleus pulposus (which is normally located within the center of the disc) to herniate. This can compress the nerves or spinal cord causing pain and spinal cord dysfunction.
Why does nucleus pulposus herniate Posterolaterally?
When degenerative changes (with or without trauma) result in protrusion or rupture of the nucleus through the annulus fibrosus in the lumbosacral or cervical area, the nucleus is displaced posterolaterally or posteriorly into the extradural space.
What is the definition of herniation?
: to protrude through an abnormal body opening : rupture a herniated intervertebral disk.
How do you describe a herniated disc?
A herniated disc (also called bulged, slipped or ruptured) is a fragment of the disc nucleus that is pushed out of the annulus, into the spinal canal through a tear or rupture in the annulus. Discs that become herniated usually are in an early stage of degeneration.
What is the importance of nucleus pulposus?
The nucleus pulposus is located in the spine, between two vertebrae, where it plays a major role in providing the spine with shock absorption during movement. It prevents bone to bone contact, reducing the possibility of injuries and pain.
What happens if nucleus pulposus?
Complications associated with nucleus pulposus herniation can result from the compression effect on the nerve root in severe cases resulting in motor deficit, in the cervical and thoracic spine there is also a risk of spinal cord compression in severe cases.
What is herniation of nucleus pulposus?
herniation of nucleus pulposus. Prolapse of the nucleus pulposus of a ruptured intervertebral disk into the spinal canal. This often results in pressure on a spinal nerve, which causes lower back pain that may radiate down the leg, a condition known as sciatica. illustration;
What happens when the nucleus pulposus ruptures?
Prolapse of the nucleus pulposus of a ruptured intervertebral disk into the spinal canal. This often results in pressure on a spinal nerve, which causes lower back pain that may radiate down the leg, a condition known as sciatica. illustration;
What kind of doctor should I See for herniated nucleus pulposus?
In the cervical disc, which is in the neck, are affected eight percent of time. When seeking treatment for herniated nucleus pulposus you will need to see a neurologists or neurosurgeons.
What is the pathophysiology of herniated nucleus radiculopathy?
When degenerative changes (with or without trauma) result in protrusion or rupture of the nucleus through the annulus fibrosus in the lumbosacral or cervical area, the nucleus is displaced posterolaterally or posteriorly into the extradural space. Radiculopathy occurs when the herniated nucleus compresses or irritates the nerve root.
