Background There are no available local data regarding normal dimensions of the lumbar spine. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a useful imaging method for the evaluation of spinal anatomy. Objective To evaluate normal dimensions of spinal canal, vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs. Methods This study was carried out on a total of 106 asymptomatic healthy Kurdish volunteers using a 1.5 Tesla MRI system in the imaging centre of Sulaimani Teaching Hospital. Results The mean midsagittal diameters of the lumbar bony spinal canal were 16.59 mm, 15.53 mm, 14.88 mm, 15.04 mm and 15.95 mm respectively. The mean intervertebral disc heights were 8.37 mm, 9.64 mm, 10.71 mm, 11.44 mm and 10.56 mm respectively. Conclusion The midsagittal spinal canal diameter is larger than that reported by other researchers in the neighboring countries.

Background The study of lumbar spinal canal becomes important in persons with low backache and other related complaints particularly for the diagnosis of spinal canal stenosis. Objectives This study aims to measure the mid sagittal diameter of the lumbar spinal canal at the level of L3 and thus evaluating the risk of spinal canal stenosis. Methods The study was conducted on 106 kurdish patients complaining of lower backache using a 1.5 Tesla MRI scan in the imaging center of Sulaimani teaching hospital. Results The mean midsagittal diameter of bony spinal canal at the level of L3 was 12.32 ± 1.44 mm. About 52% of the patients had normal spinal canal diameter, while about 48% of the patients had a stenosed canal. Conclusion Midsagittal diameter of the spinal canal was smaller than what it was found in other populations and thus having a greater risk of spinal canal stenosis.