"Many authors prefer the term "annular fissure" over "annular tear", as the latter seems to imply acute injury 1,2. In the setting of severe trauma with disruption of the disc, the term "disc rupture" should be used. The term "annular gap" (referring to a relatively wide annular fissure) is non-standard 2."
Expected headings
"Fluoroscopy"
"Most are asymptomatic; however, some are painful. The defect allows ingrowth of nerve endings and granulation tissue. Fissures near the dorsal root ganglion are especially likely to be painful."
"Annular fissures may be radial, transverse or concentric in orientation. The fissure may involve all layers or only some. The distinction is difficult if no disc extrusion is seen."