📌 How to Avoid the Trap: Pars Defect That Looks Like a Facet Joint on Axial MRI Shape, Level, and Position — The Three Keys to Correct Identification On axial lumbar MRI, a pars defect can mimic the appearance of a facet joint, especially when there is an irregular gap that resembles a joint space. To distinguish them correctly, three criteria must be checked: 1. Level A true facet joint appears only at the level where the superior and inferior articular processes meet. If the slice is above or

Tune in for an enlightening discussion with Scott Raffa, MD as he looks into the intricacies of a pars defect. A pars interarticularis defect can occur as either a unilateral or bilateral stress fracture, typically stemming from overuse or fatigue, affecting the pars interarticularis within the posterior vertebral arch. Don’t miss the opportunity to expand your knowledge and gain valuable insights from Dr. Raffa’s knowledge of pars defects. #PaleyCare #neurosurgeon #CantorSpine #orthopedics #ped