Imaging of Degenerative Cervical and Thoracic Myelopathy

In this article, we focus on imaging of degenerative cervical myelopathy, the most common form of spinal cord dysfunction in adults arising from its progressive compression by age-related degenerative changes in the spine. Imaging plays a key role in confirming the underlying cause of symptoms and guiding neurosurgical intervention. Emerging imaging methods promise earlier diagnosis, better prognostication, and more accurate identification of candidates for surgical intervention. Differences in imaging findings for the less prevalent degenerative thoracic myelopathy are also discussed.