Potential clinical applications for spinal functional MRI

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2007 Jun;11(3):165-70. doi: 10.1007/s11916-007-0186-4.

Abstract

Functional MRI (fMRI) of the spinal cord is a noninvasive technique for obtaining information regarding spinal cord neuronal function. This article provides a brief overview of recent developments in spinal cord fMRI and outlines potential applications, as well as the limitations that must be overcome, for using spinal fMRI in the clinic. This technique is currently used for research purposes, but significant potential exists for spinal fMRI to become an important clinical tool.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Spinal Cord / pathology*
  • Spinal Cord / physiology
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / diagnosis
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / pathology
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / diagnosis
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / pathology