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Demonstration of the artery of Adamkiewicz at multi- detector row helical CT
Kei Takase1, Yoshihiro Sawamura, Kazumasa Igarashi
1Department of Radiology, Ishinomaki Redcross Hospital, 1-7-10 Yoshino, Ishinomaki, Miyagi 986-8522, Japan. kytakase@mb.infoweb.ne.jp
Insights
Multi-detector row helical computed tomography (CT) effectively visualizes the artery of Adamkiewicz in most patients. This imaging technique aids in identifying the artery
Area of Science:
- Vascular imaging
- Spinal artery anatomy
- Computed tomography applications
Background:
- The artery of Adamkiewicz is crucial for spinal cord vascularization.
- Accurate depiction of this artery is vital for surgical planning and understanding spinal pathologies.
- Limited visualization of the artery of Adamkiewicz can pose challenges in clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of multi-detector row helical CT in visualizing the artery of Adamkiewicz.
- To assess the detailed anatomical characteristics of the artery of Adamkiewicz using this imaging modality.
Main Methods:
- Seventy patients with vascular diseases underwent multi-detector row helical CT of the aorta and iliac arteries.
- The artery of Adamkiewicz was analyzed using multiplanar, curved planar reformations, and cine-mode displays.
- Key parameters investigated included visualization, origin side, and vertebral level of the artery.
Main Results:
- The artery of Adamkiewicz was clearly visualized in 90% of patients.
- Left-sided origin (71%) and thoracic/lumbar levels (T8-L1, 92%) were most common.
- Full-length continuity from the spinal artery was traceable in 32% of visualized cases.
Conclusions:
- Multi-detector row helical CT is a highly effective method for depicting the artery of Adamkiewicz.
- This technique provides valuable anatomical information regarding the artery's origin and course.
- High visualization rates suggest its utility in clinical scenarios requiring assessment of spinal vascular supply.
Purpose:
To assess the ability of multi-detector row helical computed tomography (CT) to depict the artery of Adamkiewicz.
Materials And Methods:
Seventy patients with vascular diseases underwent multi-detector row helical CT of the entire aorta and iliac arteries. The artery of Adamkiewicz was examined on multiplanar and curved planar reformation images and on cine-mode displays. The visualization of the artery of Adamkiewicz, as well as its branching level and side of origin, was investigated.
Results:
In 63 (90%) of the 70 patients, at least a single artery of Adamkiewicz was clearly visualized from the intervertebral foramen to the hairpin-shaped union with the anterior spinal artery. Two arteries of Adamkiewicz were identified in 15 (24%) of 63 patients. Fifty-five arteries of Adamkiewicz (71%) originated from the left side. Seventy-two (92%) originated between T8 and L1. Neither the intercostal vein nor the posterior spinal vein were visualized in 57 of 63 patients. Continuity of the entire length, starting from the stem of the intercostal or lumbar artery and proceeding to the artery of Adamkiewicz and finally to the anterior spinal artery, was traceable on cine-mode displays or on curved planar reformation images in 20 of 63 patients.
Conclusion:
Multi-detector row helical CT depicts the artery of Adamkiewicz in a high percentage of patients.