Which diagnostic imaging modality is most appropriate in assessment of a patient with acute onset low back pain, with pain radiating to the right lower extremity to the great toe?

Question

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MRI is the most appropriate diagnostic imaging modality in assessing a patient with acute onset low back pain, with pain radiating to the right lower extremity to the great toe. It has high sensitivity in detecting soft tissue injuries, disc herniation, nerve root compression, and spinal cord lesions. CT may be helpful in cases where MRI is contraindicated or unavailable, while digital radiography and myelography have lower sensitivity and specificity in detecting spinal pathologies.

Which Diagnostic Imaging Modality Is Most Appropriate in Assessment of a Patient