Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026
C-arm-Free Simultaneous OLIF51 and Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation in a Single Lateral Position
Published on: September 16, 2022
MR imaging features of idiopathic thoracic spinal cord herniations using combined 3D-fiesta and 2D-PC Cine techniques
J C Ferré1, B Carsin-Nicol, A Hamlat
1Unité de Neuroradiologie, Fédération d'Imagerie Médicale.
Abstract:
Idiopathic thoracic spinal cord herniation (TISCH) is a rare cause of surgically treatable progressive myelopathy. The authors report 3 cases of TISCH diagnosed based on conventional T1- and T2-weighted Spin-Echo (SE) MR images in one case, and T1- and T2-weighted SE images combined with 3D-FIESTA (Fast Imaging Employing Steady state Acquisition) and 2D-Phase-Contrast Cine MR imaging in 2 cases. Conventional MRI findings usually provided the diagnosis. 3D-FIESTA images confirmed it, showing the herniated cord in the ventral epidural space. Moreover, in combination with 2D-Phase Contrast cine technique, it was a sensitive method to for the detection of associated pre- or postoperative cerebrospinal fluid spaces abnormalities.
Insights
Idiopathic thoracic spinal cord herniation (TISCH) is a rare, treatable cause of myelopathy. Advanced MRI techniques like 3D-FIESTA and 2D-Phase Contrast cine imaging aid in diagnosis and detecting associated cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neuroradiology
- Spinal Cord Imaging
Background:
- Idiopathic thoracic spinal cord herniation (TISCH) is a rare condition causing progressive myelopathy.
- Surgical intervention is a potential treatment for TISCH.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Observation:
- Three cases of TISCH were diagnosed using MRI.
- Conventional T1- and T2-weighted Spin-Echo (SE) MR images were used in one case.
- T1/T2-weighted SE images combined with 3D-FIESTA and 2D-Phase-Contrast Cine MR imaging were used in two cases.
Findings:
- Conventional MRI findings were often diagnostic for TISCH.
- 3D-FIESTA imaging confirmed herniation of the spinal cord into the ventral epidural space.
- 2D-Phase Contrast cine imaging proved sensitive for detecting cerebrospinal fluid space abnormalities, both pre- and postoperatively.
Implications:
- Advanced MRI sequences enhance diagnostic accuracy for TISCH.
- 3D-FIESTA and 2D-Phase Contrast cine imaging provide detailed anatomical and functional information.
- Improved diagnostic capabilities can lead to better surgical planning and patient outcomes for TISCH.
