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MR imaging of spinal dysraphism.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|May 1, 1987
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a reliable initial tool for evaluating spinal dysraphism in children. It accurately diagnoses various forms of spina bifida, aiding in prompt clinical management.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Spinal dysraphism encompasses midline fusion defects affecting bony, mesenchymal, and neural structures.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for managing these complex congenital anomalies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the role of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging as an initial diagnostic technique for spinal dysraphism in children.
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of MR imaging compared to surgical findings and CT myelography.
Main Methods:
- MR imaging of the spine was performed in 31 children with suspected spinal dysraphism or radiographic findings of spina bifida.
- Surgical correlation was obtained in 18 cases, and CT myelography in six.
- Diagnostic accuracy of MR was compared with surgical and/or CT findings.
Main Results:
- MR imaging provided accurate diagnoses in all evaluated cases of spinal dysraphism.
- The study included diverse examples of spina bifida aperta and occult spinal dysraphism.
- MR imaging demonstrated high reliability in identifying various spinal anomalies.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is a dependable and effective initial imaging modality for the evaluation of pediatric spinal dysraphism.
- Its accuracy supports its use in the diagnostic workup of suspected spinal cord anomalies.