Comparison with Magnetic Resonance Three-Dimensional Sequence for Lumbar Nerve Root with Intervertebral Foramen

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Neuroimaging

Background:

• Conventional 2D MRI sequences (T1 and T2 weighted) are standard for diagnosing spinal disorders.
• 3D MR imaging allows for detailed data acquisition with thin slices and multi-planar reconstruction.
• Optimizing 3D sequences is crucial for enhanced visualization of spinal structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare different 3D MR sequences for evaluating the lumbar spinal root within the intervertebral foramen.
• To determine the optimal sequence for visualizing the nerve root and surrounding tissues.
• To assess the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for improved diagnostic accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving 20 healthy volunteers.
• Utilized 3D balanced MR sequences, including fast imaging employing steady state acquisition and coherent oscillatory state acquisition (COSMIC).
• Investigated COSMIC with and without fat suppression (FS) to evaluate CNR of the lumbar spinal root.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in CNR between sequences at the foramen entry.
• COSMIC with fat suppression (COSMIC-FS) demonstrated a significantly higher CNR for intra- and extra-foramen segments.
• COSMIC-FS provided the best visualization of the nerve root relative to peripheral tissue.

Conclusions:

• The COSMIC-FS sequence is recommended for optimal visualization of the lumbar spinal root.
• This sequence is particularly beneficial for evaluating disorders affecting the intra- and extra-foramen segments.
• Findings suggest COSMIC-FS can enhance diagnostic capabilities for spinal root pathologies.