Imaging of the spine and spinal cord: An overview of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques

M I Vargas; J Boto; T R Meling

doi:10.1016/j.neurol.2020.07.005

Imaging of the spine and spinal cord: An overview of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques

Rev Neurol (Paris). 2021 May;177(5):451-458. doi: 10.1016/j.neurol.2020.07.005. Epub 2020 Aug 12.

Authors

M I Vargas¹, J Boto², T R Meling³

Affiliations

¹ Unit of Diagnostic Neuroradiology, Division of Neuroradiology, University Hospitals, Gabrielle Perret Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. Electronic address: maria.i.vargas@hcuge.ch.
² Unit of Diagnostic Neuroradiology, Division of Neuroradiology, University Hospitals, Gabrielle Perret Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
³ Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.

PMID: 32800350
DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2020.07.005

Abstract

This review will discuss conventional and advanced magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging techniques used to study the spine and spinal cord according to the anatomical structures and clinical indications. Clinical challenges that neuroradiologists may face are also discussed, such as the "when" and "where" concerning the use of each technique, and in which pathology or clinical scenario each technique is useful. Finally, some "tips and tricks" to overcome the challenges are provided with clinical examples.

Keywords: Inflammation; MRI; Spinal cord; Spine; Tumors; Vascular malformations.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal Cord*
Spine*