FIG 2. Hyperintensity at initial and follow-up imaging.

A, An initial sagittal fast spin-echo (2800/98) T2-weighted MR image shows the lumbar spine has abnormal focal hyperintensity in the posterior margin of the L5-S1 disk, indicating annular tear.

B, Image of the same patient shown in A. Sagittal fast spin-echo T2-weighted MR image (2800/98) obtained 26 months later reveals persistent abnormal focal hyperintensity at the posterior margins of the L5-S1 disk.