Table 1.

Variables on magnetic resonance imaging finding used in severity scoring system [28]

Score	T2-signal intensity	DEBIT	Nucleus shape	Annular tears	Modic changes	Endplate integrity	Osteophytes
0	Normal	Intact	Round/oval	Intact	Normal	Intact	Absent
1	Intermediate loss	Bulge	Extension into inner annulus	Concentric tears	Type I	Isolated defects	Marginal
2	Marked loss	Protrusion	Extension into outer annulus	Radial tears	Type II	Schmorl’s node <5 mm	Discontinuous
3	Absent signal	Extrusion/sequestration	Extension beyond outer annulus	Transversal tears	Type III	Schmorl’s node >5 mm	Continuous, table osteophyte

DEBIT, disc extension beyond interspace.