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Classification system based on kinematic MR imaging in cervical spondylitic myelopathy
C Muhle1, J Metzner, D Weinert
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Germany.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|November 5, 1998
Summary
Cervical spinal motion, even without significant stenosis, can worsen cervical spondylitic myelopathy. Dynamic MR imaging reveals increased spinal stenosis and cord impingement during flexion and extension, particularly in advanced degenerative stages.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Functional myelographic studies assess dynamic cervical spinal canal changes during flexion and extension.
- Cervical spondylitic myelopathy pathogenesis involves static and dynamic factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess dynamic cervical spine changes in degenerative disease using kinematic MR imaging.
- Develop a classification system for cervical spondylitic myelopathy based on static and dynamic factors.
Main Methods:
- 81 patients with degenerative cervical spine disease (Stages I-IV) underwent MR imaging.
- Spinal stenosis was graded (0-3) in neutral, flexion, and extension positions.
- Grading assessed subarachnoid space obliteration and cord compression/displacement.
Main Results:
- Spinal stenosis and cord impingement prevalence increased with degenerative disease stage.
- Pincer effect and multi-segment cord encroachment were significant in Stages III/IV.
- Extension showed significantly more cord impingement (27%) than flexion (5%).
Conclusions:
- Cervical spinal motion can contribute to cervical spondylitic myelopathy development.
- This occurs regardless of degenerative disease stage or neutral spinal stenosis grade.