[Functional MRT of the LS in an open magnet system--the initial results].
OBJECTIVE
Description of the procedure and first results with functional MRI of the lumbar spine for the investigation of discoligamentous instability.


METHODS
21 patients--11 female and 10 male--were studied with rapid True-FISP- and FLASH sequences. With the intention to document movements in maximal ante- and retroflexion a special kidney belt was used containing an inserted multi-purpose flexible coil. With this approach reproducible functional studies can be obtained.


RESULTS
Movements in ante- and retroflexion could be performed manually and gradually without technical limitation of restrictions due to the equipment. The location of a patient's pain was determined by indication from the patient and correlated with the finding on the functional MR images. In 71% of patients a gain of information was obtained with regard to discoligamentous instability of the lumbar spine when compared to earlier studies (CT, MRI in neutral position).


CONCLUSIONS
Functional MRI of the lumbar spine can contribute additional segmental information and contribute to further therapy planning. With this method discoligamentous instability can be documented, which is less likely with static MRI in a closed MR system.
Institut für Diagnostische Radiologie, Kinderradiologie und Neuroradiologie, Bereich Kernspintomographie, Kempten, Allgäu.
C
C
Funk
H M
HM
Beyer
E
E
Volle
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000175:diagnosis*; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008023:Ligaments, Articular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011187:Posture; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed