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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronic Spinal Cord Compression
Published on: May 7, 2019
Evaluation of thoracic spinal cord motion using dynamic MRI.
Jing Cai1, Ke Sheng, Jason P Sheehan
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
Summary
Thoracic spinal cord motion during normal breathing is minimal, typically under 0.5mm. This stability supports its use in stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) for precise cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiotherapy Physics
- Spinal Anatomy
Background:
- Accurate targeting is crucial for effective radiotherapy.
- Understanding spinal cord motion is essential for dose planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify thoracic spinal cord motion during respiration.
- To evaluate the implications of this motion for stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT).
Main Methods:
- Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) was employed.
- Measurements were taken during normal breathing cycles.
Main Results:
- The mean motion range of the thoracic spinal cord was found to be within 0.5mm.
- This indicates significant stability across thoracic levels.
Conclusions:
- The thoracic spinal cord exhibits minimal motion during normal breathing.
- This stability makes the thoracic spine a suitable target area for SBRT.
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