Imaging analysis of cord compression factors in CSM by using MRI motion scan technique / 中华放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the dynamic etiological effects of degeneration structure in cervical spine with motion MRI image, and to obtain the early diagnosis of CSM. Methods By flexing the patient forward and backward with the joint motion device, a total of 60 cases received MRI study in open MR feature. The motion MRI technique included the multi-angle scan, the joint motion scan, and the MR Fluoroscopy. Results (1) The spinal cord compression due to degeneration structure in flexion-extension was more significant than that in static position, it even had pile up effect. (2) The disc herniation (in 29 cases), the vertebral osteophyte, the segmental instability (in 7 cases), and the thickening of posterior longitudinal ligament (in 36 cases) could cause more serious mixture compression to the cord in anteflexion than in natural position. (3) In extension, the degenerative yellow ligaments (in 34 cases) often folded and encroached upon the spinal canal, which usually formed pincers effect with anterior compression (in 9 cases). (4) The flexion-extension movement could cause lower cervical instability founded in 14 cases. (5) The anterior space of dural sac could be decreased in flexion (in 41 cases) as well as in extension(in 16 cases), and in 43 cases, the posterior space could also be narrowed in extension, but not evident in flexion(in only 4 cases). Conclusion By using the motion MRI scan, the early, potential and dynamic compression factors of cervical spinal cord could be demonstrated not only in shape but also in pathogenesis. So the motion scan can make the diagnosis of CMS earlier than static scan does.