Vetana Seit MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Susan Catherine Lee MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Kevin R. Math MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

James Eric Silberzweig MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To demonstrate and characterize most common abnormalities of the spine in firefighters using primarily MRI examinations. To review the spectrum of imaging features and mechanisms of injuries sustained by urban firefighters.

We retrospectively evaluated 138 spine MRI examinations of urban firefighters who were referred for back pain, over the course of one year. The various injuries were tabulated. A total of 39.9 % cervical, 5.0% thoracic, and 55.1 % lumbar spine MRIs of firefighters from the ages of 29-65 (mean age 46.1 years) were reviewed. Of the 138 spine MRI examiations performed 95.6% demonstrated abnormalities. The most commonly seen spinal abnormalities included degenerative disc disease( disc herniation / bulge/ protrusion) in 94.2%, degenerative joint disease of the facet joints and uncovertebral joints 19.6%, and degenerative spondilolisthesis 10.1%. Degenerative changes were seen in firefighters as young as 30 and at least 9 individuals from the sample population had surgery for their symptoms. Reported mechanisms of injuries were related to carrying victims, lifting heavy fire-hoses and ladders, and occupational falls. Knowledge of early onset of degenerative change and spinal injuries in firefighters will aid in diagnosis and can offer information for management and prevention of injury in this high-risk population.

http://abstract.rsna.org/uploads/2014/14012002/14012002_ewib.pdf

Seit, V, Lee, S, Math, K, Silberzweig, J, Manifistations of Spine Injuries in Firefighters on MRI.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14012002.html