MRI is the modality of choice for evaluation of spinal lesions

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Spine is a longitudinal structure, and precise location of the level of a lesion from clinical examination can be difficult. MRI of spine shows the anatomy of the vertebrae that makes up the spine, as well as the discs, spinal cord and the intervertebral foramina through which the nerves pass. It also allows us to differentiate between healthy tissue and diseased tissue. Materials and methods: This study aimed at diagnosing and following up cases of spinal lesions in the department of Radio diagnosis of SBKS Medical Institute and Research Centre and Dhiraj General Hospital. The study is performed using conventional X-rays and MRI. Results: Maximum numbers of patients were between 41–50 years age group followed by 21-30 and 31-40 years of age group, whereas patients of paediatric (00-10 years) and geriatric (>70 years) age group constituted only 8% patients. Average age of patients was 42.5 years. Lumbar spine was the most commonly affected spine region. Maximum numbers of patients were of degenerative and disc lesions (49%). Conclusion: MRI by virtue of non-invasiveness, lack of radiation hazard and by ability to demonstrate structural changes is investigation of choice for spine and spinal cord pathologies. The ability to image the cord directly rather than indirectly as in myelography, the absence of bone artifact as in computed tomography, and the multiplanar capabilities indicate that MRI is the procedure of choice in the examination of the spinal cord.