Diffusion tensor tractography of the lower spinal cord.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Neuroscience
• Radiology

Background:

• Diffusion-tensor (DT) imaging is a technique used to visualize white matter tracts.
• Tractography of the lower spinal cord presents unique challenges due to its anatomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of using DT imaging with parallel imaging for tractography of the lower spinal cord.

Main Methods:

• A single-shot echo-planar sequence with parallel imaging was used at 1.5 T.
• Diffusion-weighted images were acquired with a b-value of 1,000 s/mm(2) in 5 min 15 s.
• Tractograms were generated from single regions-of-interest in seven volunteers and nine patients.

Main Results:

• The conus medullaris and cauda equina were continuously visualized in all subjects.
• Spinal cord tracts were depicted with z-axis color-coding, and nerve roots with x- and y-axis color-coding.
• Displacement of the spinal cord and proximal nerve roots was visualized in patients with spinal canal stenosis or vertebral metastasis.

Conclusions:

• DT imaging combined with parallel imaging is a feasible technique for lower spinal cord tractography.
• This method demonstrates potential for routine clinical application in visualizing spinal cord anatomy and pathology.