MRI - Lumbar spine
Axial T2
Coronal T2
Sagittal T1
Sagittal T2
Sagittal STIR
What is an Oppenheimer ossicle?
Oppenheimer ossicles are secondary ossification centers of the articular processes.
What's the most common location of an Oppenheimer ossicle?
Most commonly arise from the inferior articular process at the level L2 or L3 and are usually unilateral.
A well-corticated triangular bony fragment is seen at the left inferior articular process of L3, in keeping with an Oppenheimer ossicle. It demonstartes a hyperintese signal on T1 and T2, which is suppressed on STIR, reflecting fat metaplasia.
Intervertebral disc disease in the form of a central annular fissure at L4-L5 and a broad-based central protrusion at L5-S1. No canal stenosis or nerve root compromise.