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Discovertebral junction of the spine--a cadaveric study by spin-echo MR imaging
Y Kakitsubata1, K Nabeshima, S Kakitsubata
1Department of Radiology, Miyazaki Medical College, Japan.
Acta Radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively visualizes the discovertebral junction (DVJ) of the spine. This study shows MRI can reveal abnormalities in the cartilaginous end-plate and bone marrow within the DVJ.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The discovertebral junction (DVJ) is a critical spinal structure.
- Understanding its MR appearance is essential for diagnosing pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the magnetic resonance (MR) appearance of the discovertebral junction (DVJ).
- To assess the utility of MR imaging in identifying DVJ abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Examination of 161 DVJs from 27 cadaveric spines.
- Utilized superconductive MR imaging with T1-, proton density-, and T2-weighted spin-echo sequences.
- Compared a small surface coil with a head coil for image resolution.
Main Results:
- Higher resolution and sharper DVJ contours were achieved with a surface coil.
- Cortical bone demonstrated very low signal intensity across all sequences.
- Cartilaginous end-plate (CP) signal intensity varied by sequence (low-intermediate on T1, low on PD and T2).
- MR imaging successfully visualized CP, Schmorl's nodules, and adjacent bone marrow pathology.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is a valuable tool for assessing the discovertebral junction.
- It can effectively reveal gross cartilaginous end-plate appearances and associated bone marrow pathology.