Purpose. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV) in a well-represented general population. Methods. For a retrospective cohort study, abdominal radiographs of adult subjects were queried with clear visibility of the vertebral body articulation of the last rib, all lumbar transverse processes, and complete sacral wings. Exclusion criteria included any radiologic evidence of previous lumbosacral surgery that would block our view. A total of 6200 abdominal films were reviewed, and 3607 were identified as being suitable for the measurement of the desired parameters. Results. A total of 3607 subjects were identified as eligible for the study, and 683 (18.9%) were classified as positive for a lumbosacral transitional vertebra. The prevalence of sacralization and lumbarization was found as 17.2% and 1.7%, respectively. The average age at the time of the study was years (18–86 years). Conclusions. As a result of different opinions, LSTV retains its controversial status. Our prevalence study of the general population will provide assistance for resolution of the controversy. Prevalence studies of the general population with a wide participation will shed light on comparative studies. 1. Introduction Lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV) is a congenital vertebral anomaly of the L5-S1 junction in the spine [1]. LSTV occurs because of sacralization in which one or both of the transverse processes of the fifth lumbar vertebra exhibits fusion with the first sacral segment or as a result of lumbarization in which the first sacral segment exhibits an abnormal transverse process similar to that of the lumbar vertebra. This modification may contribute to incorrect determination of a vertebral segment, which can lead to surgery at the wrong level and unresolved symptoms [1]. LSTV is evaluated with lumbosacral anteroposterior radiographs, and abdominal radiographs may also show this anomaly. Abdominal radiographs, as radiographic examinations for abdominal indications, have many clinical uses and are most often indicated for patients who exhibit signs of intestinal obstruction or visceral perforation. In this study, a different purpose was pursued. We used abdominal radiographs which were with clear visibility of the last rib’s vertebral body articulation, all lumbar transverse processes, and the complete sacral wing to provide radiographic images of the lumbar spine. For a study evaluating LSTV cases, the use of these radiographs was desirable as they are likely to be representative of the general population. The
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