Comparison of fast spin-echo and conventional spin-echo magnetic resonance spinal imaging techniques in four normal...

Various magnetic resonance (MR) imaging techniques have been used to assess lumbar spinal abnormalities in people. Four, young adult, clinically normal dogs were used to compare images of the spinal cord acquired using conventional spin-echo and rapid acquisition relaxation-enhanced (RARE), commonly called fast spin-echo (FSE), magnetic resonance imaging techniques. Lateral myelograms were made as an anatomic control. The T2-weighted FSE technique was characterized by better image quality than the T2-weighted conventional spin-echo technique. The short acquisition time with the FSE technique allowed increases in the matrix size and number of excitations, thus improving resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. In canine lumbar spinal MR imaging, use of a FSE technique is recommended to reduce the overall time for imaging and to improve image quality.