Facet joint vacuum phenomenon

Facet joint vacuum phenomenon or degenerative intrafacetal gas is a feature that can be seen on spinal imaging in facet joint arthropathy as part of degenerative spondylosis.

Radiographic features

Signal characteristics are those of air and are

  • T1: low signal
  • T2: low signal

Differential diagnosis

In traumatic situation, consider

  • traumatic intrafacetal gas

See also