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 o f the spine. Fat-suppression techniques used in conjunction with gadol inium-based contrast material improve visualization of enhancing infla mmatory 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 susceptibil ity compared with gradient-recalled echo (GRE) techniques. With volume GRE sequences, thin contiguous sections can be obtained, and images c an be reformatted into multiple planes from a single data set. High-co ntrast imaging can be accomplished by using three-dimensional (3D) tur bo-fast low-angle shot (FLASH) or magnetization prepared rapid acquisi tion gradient-echo (MP RAGE) techniques with gadolinium contrast enhan cement. Finally, CSF flow dynamics within the subarachnoid space and w ithin cystic lesions can be elucidated with phase-contrast techniques. Judicious selection of these methods and other innovative MR techniqu es is necessary to maximize the potential of MR in diagnosis of spinal disease.