[Multislice computed tomographic myelography]

Nervenarzt. 2006 Feb;77(2):231-8, 241; quiz 242-3. doi: 10.1007/s00115-005-2011-9.
[Article in German]

Abstract

While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the first line modality in depicting intramedullary spinal lesions, computed tomographic (CT) myelography has gained renewed attention due to the introduction of multislice scanning (MS-CT). Compared with conventional CT, MS-CT permits rapid, high-resolution imaging of various spinal pathologies with extended scan length. Although soft tissue contrast is inferior to that with MRI, MS-CT myelography performs best in detailed assessment of osseous pathologies, 3D imaging of orthopedic and anesthesiologic implants, and showing dural leakage and causes of CSF circulation impairment. Whenever MRI is not available or contraindicated, MS-CT myelography is the method of choice for evaluating spinal lesions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anatomy, Cross-Sectional / methods
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods*
  • Myelography / methods*
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'
  • Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, Spiral Computed / methods*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*