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Published on: April 7, 2015
MR imaging of the spinal cord: current status and future advances
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510.
Abstract:
The advent of MR imaging has dramatically altered the evaluation of suspected myelopathy. MR is far less invasive than traditional imaging techniques and often offers a degree of understanding of an abnormality not previously possible. These achievements have closely followed recent technologic advances, such as the development of contrast agents and the introduction of sequences that permit a reduction in both imaging time and artifacts. The current role of MR in the imaging of spinal cord disorders, including intramedullary tumors, infectious and inflammatory myelitis, demyelinating diseases, vascular lesions, trauma, syringomyelia/hydromyelia, and neurodegenerative disorders, is reviewed. While further improvements will undoubtedly occur, the field of spinal MR imaging appears to be entering a maturing phase.
Insights
Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging revolutionizes myelopathy diagnosis, offering a less invasive and more insightful evaluation of spinal cord disorders. Advances in technology enhance MR
Area of Science:
- Radiology and Medical Imaging
- Neurology
- Spinal Cord Disorders
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging has transformed the diagnostic approach to suspected myelopathy.
- MR imaging is less invasive than conventional methods and provides unprecedented detail of spinal cord abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current applications and impact of MR imaging in evaluating a wide spectrum of spinal cord disorders.
- To highlight the technological advancements driving the efficacy of spinal MR imaging.
Main Methods:
- Review of the established and evolving role of MR imaging in diagnosing various spinal cord conditions.
- Discussion of technological improvements, including contrast agents and advanced imaging sequences.
Main Results:
- MR imaging is now a cornerstone in evaluating suspected myelopathy, offering superior diagnostic capabilities.
- Technological progress has significantly reduced imaging time and artifacts, improving diagnostic accuracy.
Conclusions:
- Spinal MR imaging is crucial for diagnosing conditions like tumors, myelitis, demyelinating diseases, vascular lesions, trauma, syringomyelia, and neurodegenerative disorders.
- The field of spinal MR imaging is advancing, indicating a maturing phase with ongoing improvements.
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