High resolution CISS imaging of the spine

Spatial resolution remains one of the major problems and goals in spinal im aging. The high spatial resolution afforded by a novel sequence, constructi ve interference in steady state (CISS), provides a further refinement to MR I, the modality of choice in the investigation of suspected intraspinal pat hology. Both complex and subtle abnormalities are more fully elucidated usi ng CISS. It is now used in our institution as an adjunct to conventional im aging sequences in the diagnostic evaluation of complex intraspinal patholo gy. The anatomical information provided by CISS is of particular value in p lanning surgical interventions, most notably in the management of intraaxia l and extraaxial cystic abnormalities, dysraphic malformations and disturba nces of cerebrospinal fluid circulation, including post-traumatic and post- surgical scarring.