MRI IN EARLY DETECTION AND ASSESSMENT OF CERVICAL SPINE DEGENERATION USING NAKASHIMA'S GRADING SCORE

Background: Cervical spine degeneration is a progressive condition that can lead to signicant neurological impairment if not detected early. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a crucial role in the evaluation of degenerative changes. Recently, Nakashima's grading score has emerged as a standardized method for assessing cervical spinal degeneration, offering a more detailed classication of pathological changes. This study Objective: aims to evaluate the effectiveness of MRI in the early detection and grading of cervical spine degeneration using Nakashima's classication system. Patients presenting with cervical spine symptoms underwent MRI evaluation. Th Methods: e severity of degeneration was assessed using Nakashima's grading score, focusing on disc degeneration, spinal cord compression, and signal intensity changes. Correlations between MRI ndings, clinical symptoms, and neurological impairment were analyzed to determine the grading system's diagnostic accuracy. MRI successfully identied early degenerativ Results: e changes, with Nakashima's grading score providing a structured assessment of disease progression. Higher-grade degeneration correlated signicantly with increased neurological symptoms and spinal cord signal alterations. The use of MRI enhanced early diagnosis, aiding in timely intervention and management. MRI, in conjunction with Nakashima's gradi Conclusion: ng score, serves as a valuable tool for the early detection and evaluation of cervical spine degeneration. This standardized grading system improves diagnostic accuracy and facilitates better clinical decision-making, potentially preventing disease progression and neurological complications.