Abul Cranial Shift: Why vertebral numbering matters
Abul Cranial Shift describes a combination of anatomical features seen in some people with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The lowest lumbar vertebra is joined to the sacrum, and the rib at the last thoracic vertebra is absent or unusually small.
The sacrum is the bone below the lumbar spine, at the back of the pelvis.
Why does this matter?
Before surgery, the team identifies and numbers the vertebrae carefully. Differences at the boundaries between spinal regions can make numbering less straightforward. Recognising these features helps the team plan the correct levels for surgery.
What did the original study find?
The study reviewed 187 patients who had surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The combination was found in 36 patients, or 19%. This figure describes that surgical study group.
What should I ask my doctor?
If this term appears in your report, ask your doctor to show you the finding on your images and explain whether it affects your treatment plan.
Research and technical background
The technical definition combines L5 sacralisation with absent or markedly reduced T12 ribs. The original article and the anatomical background are available below.
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Abul K et al. Spine Deformity. 2023;11:105–114. Published online 3 August 2022. PubMed · Original article
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Williams SA, Russo GA. Evolution of the hominoid vertebral column: The long and the short of it. Evolutionary Anthropology. 2015;24:15–32. https://doi.org/10.1002/evan.21437
Figure credit: Mustafa Başdaş.
