Tracing the disc: The novel qualitative morphometric MRI based disc degeneration classification system.

Background: This study aimed to develop a classification system for lumbar disc degeneration using routine magnetic resonance images (MRIs) that is easily applicable and unaffected by existing classifications' limitations, and to compare its reliability, reproducibility, and discriminative power to the widely used Pfirrmann classification.

Methods: Five features were graded. This new classification system has eight grades, with at least one of these five features altering each grade.