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Disc sequestration

(Science: radiology) Complete separation of disc material with rupture through posterior longitudinal ligament into the epidural space; free fragment herniation findings: migration superiorly/inferiorly with compression of nerve roots above/below the level of herniation, disc material noted more than 9mm from disc space differential diagnosis: postoperative scarring (retraction of thecal sac to the site of surgery), epidural abscess/tumour, conjoined nerve root: 2 nerve roots arising simultaneously from the thecal sac; normal variant in 1-3% see: degenerative disc disease