MR imaging of the spine: recent advances in pulse sequences and special techniques.
A number of new techniques have been developed to enhance MR imaging of the spine. Fat-suppression techniques used in conjunction with gadolinium-based contrast material improve visualization of enhancing inflammatory and neoplastic diseases. Fast spin-echo (FSE) sequences can be used to decrease imaging times, to increase resolution, or to improve signal-to-noise ratios on T2-weighted images. In general, FSE images provide a better myelographic effect with reduced magnetic susceptibility compared with gradient-recalled echo (GRE) techniques. With volume GRE sequences, thin contiguous sections can be obtained, and images can be reformatted into multiple planes from a single data set. High-contrast imaging can be accomplished by using three-dimensional (3D) turbo-fast low-angle shot (FLASH) or magnetization prepared rapid acquisition gradient-echo (MP RAGE) techniques with gadolinium contrast enhancement. Finally, CSF flow dynamics within the subarachnoid space and within cystic lesions can be elucidated with phase-contrast techniques. Judicious selection of these methods and other innovative MR techniques is necessary to maximize the potential of MR in diagnosis of spinal disease.
Georgy
B A
BA
Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego 92103-8756.
Hesselink
J R
JR
D003287:Contrast Media; D005260:Female; D005682:Gadolinium; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D013122:Spinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013131:Spine / Q000473:pathology*
D003287:Contrast Media; D005682:Gadolinium