Advances and challenges in AI-assisted MRI for lumbar disc degeneration detection and classification.

Journal: European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
Published Date: Jul 25, 2025

Abstract

PURPOSE: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major contributor to chronic low back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) serves as the gold standard for IDD assessment, yet manual grading is often subjective and inconsistent. With advances in artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning, automated detection and classification of IDD from MRI has become increasingly feasible. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of AI applications-especially machine learning and deep learning techniques-for MRI-based detection and grading of lumbar disc degeneration, highlighting their clinical value, current limitations, and future directions.

Authors

  • Peng Zhao
    Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.
  • Shan Zhu
    Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin 300211, P.R. China.

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