Rapid MRI detection of vertebral numeric variation.
OBJECTIVE
Vertebral column variation is a common, often overlooked finding on traditional spine MRI. Standard localizers do not image the entire neuroaxis, masking variation. The purpose of this study was to use a subminute automated spine survey iterative scan technique (ASSIST) to evaluate 207 patients undergoing thoracic spine MRI.


CONCLUSIONS
We found variation in 7.7%, with 69% of these cases going unreported. To enhance patient care and decrease medicolegal implications, we recommend ASSIST be performed on all thoracic and lumbar examinations, with variations documented.
Akbar
Jason J
JJ
Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, OH 45267-0762, USA.
Weiss
Kenneth L
KL
Saafir
Muhammad A
MA
Weiss
Jane L
JL
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000465:Algorithms; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010363:Pattern Recognition, Automated / Q000379:methods*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013131:Spine / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000473:pathology*