Table 1 Two image plane MRI classification scheme for IVD degeneration

1

Homogeneous, bright white. Vertical band is accepted in sagittal plane if transverse plane is homogeneous and bright white.

Clear

Hyperintense or isointense to cerebrospinal fluid

Normal

Normal / healthy IVD

2

Inhomogeneous with or without vertical bands. Maximum one-third of the nucleus pulposus is hypointense.

Clear

Hyperintense or isointense to cerebrospinal fluid

Normal

Mild degeneration

3

Inhomogeneous, grey. Minimal black spot is accepted if it is only in one image plane.

Unclear, but visible at least in one image plane

Intermediate: isointense or hypointense to cerebrospinal fluid

Normal to slightly decreased

Moderate degeneration

4

Inhomogeneous, grey to black.

Lost

Intermediate or hypointense to cerebrospinal fluid

Normal to moderately decreased

Severe degeneration

5

Inhomogeneous, black.

Lost

Hypointense to cerebrospinal fluid

Collapsed IVD space

Severe degeneration and IVD herniation