Anatomic Orientation of Lumbar Facet Joints and its Effects on Degeneration of Intervertebral Disc

Objective To study the effect of lumbar facet joints orientation in development of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration. Methods The angle of lumbar facet joints of 18 cadaver lumbar verteabral bone specimens were measured by hand and on CT scan picture. Results The angle of lumbar facet joints changed larger gradually from L\-1 to L\-5. Conclusion Rank sum test shows non\|significant difference in these two data. Increasing lumbar facet joints angle was considered to be suitable for larger scope of movement in lower lumbar spine. It may be an influencing factor in the development of degeneration of lower lumbar intervertebral disc at early stage.