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Histological Scoring Criteria.
| Grade | Annulus Fibrosus (AF) | Nucleus Pulposus (NP) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Discrete and well-opposed lamellae | Oval shape, highly hydrated, many notochordal cells |
| 1 | Moderately serpentine with rupture | Irregular shape; decreased hydration |
| 2 | Severely serpentine with rupture; reversed contour | Large defects; cell clusters present |
| 3 | Indistinct border of NP and AF | Minor clefts; cell clusters decrease |
| 4 | Clefts formed; fragmentation of lamellae | Occupied by connective tissue |
