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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronic Spinal Cord Compression
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MRI findings in herniation of the spinal cord

Yune Kwong1, George Jakanani, Nitin Rao

  • 1Department of Radiology, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK.

Journal of Radiology Case Reports
|April 4, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Spinal cord herniation, a rare condition causing difficult-to-diagnose neurological deficits, is increasingly recognized through spinal MRI. Early identification of its imaging features is crucial for timely treatment and avoiding misdiagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Radiology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Spinal cord herniation presents with non-specific neurological deficits, posing a diagnostic challenge.
  • Recognition of its imaging features has lagged despite neurosurgical reports, hindering timely diagnosis and treatment.
  • The widespread adoption of spinal MRI has recently improved the recognition of this condition's characteristic appearances.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To familiarize radiologists with the typical MRI features of spinal cord herniation.
  • To emphasize the importance of recognizing these features to prevent misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
  • To highlight the increasing likelihood of encountering this condition due to more frequent spinal MRI examinations.

Main Methods:

  • Case presentation of spinal cord herniation with typical imaging features.
  • Review of neurosurgical literature regarding spinal cord herniation.
  • Analysis of the impact of widespread spinal MRI adoption on diagnosis.

Main Results:

  • Spinal cord herniation is a rare condition with challenging, non-specific neurological deficits.
  • Characteristic MRI features are now increasingly recognized, aiding diagnosis.
  • Misdiagnosis has occurred, leading to delayed treatment in some cases.

Conclusions:

  • Radiologists must recognize the telltale MRI features of spinal cord herniation.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis via MRI is essential for appropriate patient management.
  • Increased spinal MRI utilization will likely lead to more frequent identification of this rare condition.
Keywords:
HerniaMRIMagnetic Resonance ImagingSpinal Cord DiseasesThoracic Vertebrae

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