Modified Neidre and MacNab classification of nerve root anomalies

Case contributed by Disha Lokhandwala
Diagnosis not applicable

Neidre and MacNab classification modified by Burke et al:

  • type 1: "conjoined"

    • type 1a: two nerve roots arise from a common dural sheath

    • type 1B: two nerve root arise close in the thecal sac but do not have a common dural sheath

  • type 2: "redundant" - two separate nerve roots exit through one foramen

    • type 2a: no extra nerve root leaving one neural exit foramen without a nerve root

    • type 2b: extra nerve root with all neural exit foramina containing a nerve root or roots

  • type 3: "anastomotic" - normal adjacent nerve roots are connected by a vertical connecting/bridging segment

  • type 4: "confluent" two contributions from two adjacent nerve roots arising from the thecal sac coalescing to form a single nerve root that exits the neural exit foramen

Case Discussion

Neidre and MacNab classification modified by Burke et al:

  • type 1: "conjoined"

    • type 1a: two nerve roots arise from a common dural sheath

    • type 1B: two nerve root arise close in the thecal sac but do not have a common dural sheath

  • type 2: "redundant" - two separate nerve roots exit through one foramen

    • type 2a: no extra nerve root leaving one neural exit foramen without a nerve root

    • type 2b: extra nerve root with all neural exit foramina containing a nerve root or roots

  • type 3: "anastomotic" - normal adjacent nerve roots are connected by a vertical connecting/bridging segment

  • type 4: "confluent" two contributions from two adjacent nerve roots arising from the thecal sac coalescing to form a single nerve root that exits the neural exit foramen

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