Age-related changes in the cervical spine of asymptomatic individuals: A magnetic resonance imaging-based study

Abstract

Background: Alignment of the cervical spine is a critical consideration when performing cervical spinal surgery. Aim: The intent of this study was to look at the manner in which cervical spine configuration alters with age in those with no symptoms, and to figure out whether or not a cervical vertebral column configuration is gender related. Methods: One hundred asymptomatic subjects (54 males and 46 females) aged 16–85 years were divided into 4 age groups as follows (Groups A: ≤20; B: 21–40; C: 41–60; and D: ≥60). The following variables were measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images – thoracic inlet angle (TIA), neck tilt (NT), and thoracic 1 slope (T1S) after the included subjects underwent MRI of the cervical region. The Tukey's test was applied for statistical analysis amongst age groups, whereas the t-test was used for gender differences within the same age group. Results: The TIA in Group A was statistically significant versus Groups C and D, as P = 0.007 and P = 0.000, respectively. NT concerning category A was statistically significant versus categories B, C, and D (P 0.05). Among each age category, there was insignificant variation in cervical spine alignment across genders (P > 0.05). Conclusion: TIA and NT alterations were associated with the aging process, whereas no cervical spine change was noted in the T1S with age.

Keywords

• age
• cervical spine
• gender
• magnetic resonance imaging
• neck tilt
• thoracic 1 slope
• thoracic inlet angle