Assessing Spinal Cord Compression Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Abstract

Source: Zheng, W. et. al., Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronic Spinal Cord Compression. J. Vis. Exp. (2019)

This video demonstrates diffusion tensor imaging in assessing chronic spinal cord compression. By analyzing water diffusion patterns, fractional anisotropy, and apparent diffusion coefficient values, the findings reveal axonal damage in compressed regions. The findings provide critical insights into spinal cord pathology and structural integrity.

Protocol

All procedures involving human participants have been performed in compliance with the institutional, national, and international guidelines for human welfare and have been reviewed by the local institutional review board.

1. Subject Preparation

1. Ensure that each participant meets the following criteria for chronic spinal cord compression: a) a history of loss of significant neurological function, b) a positive myelopathy physical examination, and c) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of cervical cord compression.
   NOTE: The exclusion criteria are a) incapability of providing written consent and b) inability to obtain diffusion....

Results

Figure 1: Time course of the clinical MRI protocol. First, the FSPGR sequence was selected for localiza.......

Materials

List of materials used in this article

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
3-Tesla MRI scanner	Siemens	40708	Software: NUMARIS/4
Syngo MR B17	Siemens	40708	Software: NUMARIS/4