Magnetic Resonance Imaging Grading Systems for Central Canal and Neural Foraminal Stenoses of the Lumbar and Cervical Spines With a Focus on the Lee Grading System

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a standard imaging modality for diagnosing spinal stenosis, which is a common degenerative disorder in the elderly population. Standardized interpretation of spinal MRI for diagnosing and grading the severity of spinal stenosis is necessary to ensure correct communication with clinicians and to conduct clinical research. In this review, we revisit the Lee grading system for central canal and neural foraminal stenosis of the cervical and lumbar spine, which are based on the pathophysiology and radiologic findings of spinal stenosis.

Keywords: Central canal stenosis; Grading system; Neural foraminal stenosis; Spinal stenosis.