Thoracolumbar transitional vertebrae: Quantitative differentiation and associated numeric variation in the vertebral column using skeletal remains

Abstract

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Letter: Transitional Anatomy Considerations in Spinal Deformity Surgery

“…The anatomic complexity, physiological variations, and variable surgeon decision-making in transitional anatomy, compounded by the lack of standardized measurements for alignment, have led to errors and poor outcomes. 15-17 Although there exists limited literature describing morphology of transitional vertebrae, 8,18 consensus has not been obtained in classifying reliable anatomic landmarks to distinguish the correct vertebral levels with transitional anatomy. These include using the locations of dural sac termination and aortic bifurcation, sagittal cervicothoracic imaging, radiopaque spinous process labeling, surface localization of thoracic vertebrae, or modified lateral positioning during imaging.…”