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Ishaque AH, Alvi MA, Pedro K, Fehlings MG. Imaging protocols for non-traumatic spinal cord injury: current state of the art and future directions. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:691-709. [PMID: 38879824 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2363839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-traumatic spinal cord injury (NTSCI) is a term used to describe damage to the spinal cord from sources other than trauma. Neuroimaging techniques such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have improved our ability to diagnose and manage NTSCIs. Several practice guidelines utilize MRI in the diagnostic evaluation of traumatic and non-traumatic SCI to direct surgical intervention. AREAS COVERED The authors review practices surrounding the imaging of various causes of NTSCI as well as recent advances and future directions for the use of novel imaging modalities in this realm. The authors also present discussions around the use of simple radiographs and advanced MRI modalities in clinical settings, and briefly highlight areas of active research that seek to advance our understanding and improve patient care. EXPERT OPINION Although several obstacles must be overcome, it appears highly likely that novel quantitative imaging features and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) as well as machine learning (ML) will revolutionize degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) care by providing earlier diagnosis, accurate localization, monitoring for deterioration and neurological recovery, outcome prediction, and standardized practice. Some intriguing findings in these areas have been published, including the identification of possible serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, which are currently in the early phases of translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah H Ishaque
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohammed Ali Alvi
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karlo Pedro
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Mohammadi M, Roohollahi F, Mahmoudi MM, Mohammadi A, Mohamadi M, Kankam SB, Ghamari Khameneh A, Baghdasaryan D, Farahbakhsh F, Martin AR, Harrop J, Rahimi-Movaghar V. Correlation Between Pre-Operative Diffusion Tensor Imaging Indices and Post-Operative Outcome in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Global Spine J 2024; 14:1800-1817. [PMID: 38168663 PMCID: PMC11268306 DOI: 10.1177/21925682231225634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. OBJECTIVES The correlation between pre-operative diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics and post-operative clinical outcomes in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) has been widely investigated with different studies reporting varied findings. We conducted a systematic review to determine the association between DTI metric and clinical outcomes after surgery. METHODS We identified relevant articles that investigated the relationship between pre-operative DTI indices and post-operative outcome in DCM patients by searching PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE from inception until October 2023. In addition, quantitative synthesis and meta-analyses were performed. RESULTS FA was significantly correlated with postoperative JOA or mJOA across all age and follow up subgroups, changes observed in JOA or mJOA from preoperative to postoperative stages (Δ JOA or Δ mJOA) in subgroups aged 65 and above and in those with a follow-up period of 6 months or more, as well as recovery rate in all studies pooled together and also in the under-65 age bracket. Additionally, a significant correlation was demonstrated between recovery rate and ADC across all age groups. No other significant correlations were discovered between DTI parameters (MD, AD, and ADC) and post-operative outcomes. CONCLUSION DTI is a quantitative noninvasive evaluation tool that correlates with severity of DCM. However, the current evidence is still elusive regarding whether DTI metric is a validated tool for predicting the degree of post-operative recovery, which could potentially be useful in patient selection for surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faramarz Roohollahi
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Yas Spine Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamad Mahdi Mahmoudi
- Department of General Surgery, Shahid Mofateh Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aynaz Mohammadi
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobin Mohamadi
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samuel Berchi Kankam
- Image guided Neurosurgery Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Brain Trauma Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Afshar Ghamari Khameneh
- Department of Radiology, Advanced Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology (ADIR) Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Farzin Farahbakhsh
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Allan R. Martin
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - James Harrop
- Department of Neurological and Orthopedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Mohammadi M, Roohollahi F, Farahbakhsh F, Mohammadi A, Mortazavi Mamaghani E, Kankam SB, Moarrefdezfouli A, Ghamari Khameneh A, Mahmoudi MM, Baghdasaryan D, Martin AR, Harrop J, Rahimi-Movaghar V. Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Diagnosing and Evaluating Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Global Spine J 2024:21925682241263792. [PMID: 38877604 DOI: 10.1177/21925682241263792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. OBJECTIVE Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common spinal cord disorder necessitating surgery. We aim to explore how effectively diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) can distinguish DCM from healthy individuals and assess the relationship between DTI metrics and symptom severity. METHODS We included studies with adult DCM patients who had not undergone decompressive surgery and implemented correlation analyses between DTI parameters and severity, or compared healthy controls and DCM patients. RESULTS 57 studies were included in our meta-analysis. At the maximal compression (MC) level, fractional anisotropy (FA) exhibited lower values in DCM patients, while apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), mean diffusivity (MD), and radial diffusivity (RD) were notably higher in the DCM group. Moreover, our investigation into the diagnostic utility of DTI parameters disclosed high sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve values for FA (.84, .80, .83 respectively) and ADC (.74, .84, .88 respectively). Additionally, we explored the correlation between DTI parameters and myelopathy severity, revealing a significant correlation of FA (.53, 95% CI:0.40 to .65) at MC level with JOA/mJOA scores. CONCLUSION Current guidelines for DCM suggest decompressive surgery for both mild and severe cases. However, they lack clear recommendations on which mild DCM patients might benefit from conservative treatment vs immediate surgery. ADC's role here could be pivotal, potentially differentiating between healthy individuals and DCM. While it may not correlate with symptom severity, it might predict surgical outcomes, making it a valuable imaging biomarker for clearer management decisions in mild DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faramarz Roohollahi
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Yas Spine Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzin Farahbakhsh
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aynaz Mohammadi
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Samuel Berchi Kankam
- Image guided Neurosurgery Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Brain Trauma Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Azin Moarrefdezfouli
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshar Ghamari Khameneh
- Department of Radiology, Advanced Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology (ADIR) Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamad Mahdi Mahmoudi
- Department of General Surgery, Shahid Mofateh Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Allan R Martin
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - James Harrop
- Department of Neurological and Orthopedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Horak T, Horakova M, Kerkovsky M, Dostal M, Hlustik P, Valosek J, Svatkova A, Bednarik P, Vlckova E, Bednarik J. Evidence-based commentary on the diagnosis, management, and further research of degenerative cervical spinal cord compression in the absence of clinical symptoms of myelopathy. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1341371. [PMID: 38798708 PMCID: PMC11116587 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1341371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) represents the final consequence of a series of degenerative changes in the cervical spine, resulting in cervical spinal canal stenosis and mechanical stress on the cervical spinal cord. This process leads to subsequent pathophysiological processes in the spinal cord tissues. The primary mechanism of injury is degenerative compression of the cervical spinal cord, detectable by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), serving as a hallmark for diagnosing DCM. However, the relative resilience of the cervical spinal cord to mechanical compression leads to clinical-radiological discordance, i.e., some individuals may exhibit MRI findings of DCC without the clinical signs and symptoms of myelopathy. This degenerative compression of the cervical spinal cord without clinical signs of myelopathy, potentially serving as a precursor to the development of DCM, remains a somewhat controversial topic. In this review article, we elaborate on and provide commentary on the terminology, epidemiology, natural course, diagnosis, predictive value, risks, and practical management of this condition-all of which are subjects of ongoing debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Horak
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Magda Horakova
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Milos Kerkovsky
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Marek Dostal
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Petr Hlustik
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Jan Valosek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
- NeuroPoly Lab, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Polytechnique Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Mila—Quebec AI Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alena Svatkova
- Danish Research Center for Magnetic Resonance, Center for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Center for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Petr Bednarik
- Danish Research Center for Magnetic Resonance, Center for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Center for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Vlckova
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Josef Bednarik
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
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Fang Y, Li S, Wang J, Zhang Z, Jiang W, Wang C, Jiang Y, Guo H, Han X, Tian W. Diagnostic efficacy of tract-specific diffusion tensor imaging in cervical spondylotic myelopathy with electrophysiological examination validation. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:1230-1244. [PMID: 38286908 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-08111-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of tract-specific diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics in identifying the responsible segments for neurological dysfunction in cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). METHODS The study encompassed nineteen participants diagnosed with CSM, including 10 males and 9 females. Additionally, a control group consisting of ten healthy caregivers (5 males and 5 females) were recruited with no symptoms and no compressions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All participants underwent a comprehensive physical examination, MRI assessment, and DTI examination conducted by a senior chief physician. Several parameters were collected from the MR images, including the aspect ratio (defined as the anteroposterior diameter / the transverse diameter of the corresponding segment's spinal cord), transverse ratio (defined as the transverse diameter of the corresponding segment's spinal cord / the transverse diameter of the spinal cord at C2/3), and T2 high signal of the spinal cord. Furthermore, quantitative DTI metrics, such as axial diffusivity (AD), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), and fractional anisotropy (FA), were calculated using automatic region-of-interest (ROI) analysis for both whole spinal cord column and dorsal column. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the aspect ratio, transverse ratio, and DTI parameters. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated. Intraoperative spinal cord electrophysiological examination was performed as the objective measure of spinal cord function during surgery. RESULTS As determined by electrophysiological examination, neurological dysfunction was found in 2 patients due to C3/4 compression, in 10 patients due to C4/5 compression, in 6 patients due to C5/6 compression, and in 1 patient due to C6/7 compression. The modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale (mJOA) was 12.71 ± 1.55 in the CSM group, with 4.87 ± 0.72 for sensory nerve function and 5.05 ± 1.35 for motor nerve function. For the control group, none of the volunteers had neurological dysfunction. T2 high signal was found at the most stenotic segment in 13 patients of the CSM group. Considering all the cervical segments, the aspect ratio (AUC = 0.823, P = 0.001, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 82.47%) was more capable of determining the responsible segment than transverse ratio (AUC = 0.661, P = 0.027, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 67.01%). AD, MD, and RD were significantly higher while FA was significantly lower in the responsible segment than in the irresponsible segment (P < 0.05). The AUC of DTI-Dorsal column parameters (AD, MD, RD, FA) was larger than the corresponding parameters of the DTI (Whole spinal cord). AD of DTI-Dorsal Column possessed the greatest efficacy (AUC = 0.823, sensitivity = 84.21%, specificity = 77.32%) to determine the responsible segment, larger than AD of DTI-Whole spinal cord (AUC = 0.822, P = 0.001, Sensitivity = 89.47%, Specificity = 77.32%), aspect ratio (AUC = 0.823, P = 0.001, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 82.47%) and transverse ratio (AUC = 0.661, P = 0.027, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 67.01%). Subgroup analysis revealed that the diagnostic efficacy of DTI and MRI parameters was influenced by cervical spine segment. CONCLUSIONS When considering all cervical segments, AD from the DTI-Dorsal Column exhibited the most significant potential in identifying responsible segments. This potential was found to be superior to that of DTI-Whole spinal cord, aspect ratio, the most stenotic segment, T2 high signals, transverse ratio, motor nerve dysfunction, and sensory nerve dysfunction. The diagnostic effectiveness of both DTI and MRI parameters was notably influenced by the specific cervical spine segment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanming Fang
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Spine Department, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Sisi Li
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jinchao Wang
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Spine Department, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurological Electrophysiology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Jiang
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Radiology Department, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing, China
| | - Yuancheng Jiang
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Guo
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Han
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Spine Department, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing, China.
| | - Wei Tian
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Spine Department, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Ge Y, Zhao R, Guo X, Liang M, Xue Y. Systematic investigation of cerebellar functional alterations and their association with surgical outcomes in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy: a resting-state fMRI study. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:280-290. [PMID: 38302829 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01776-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to systematically investigate the changes in cerebellar neural activity and cerebellar-cortical functional connectivity (FC) in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). METHODS In this study, we collected clinical data and resting-state fMRI data from 54 DCM patients and 50 healthy controls (HCs). We analyzed voxel-wise regional fMRI metrics, including amplitude of low frequency fluctuation (ALFF), fractional ALFF, regional homogeneity, functional connectivity density, and voxel-mirrored homotopic connectivity. In analysis 1, we examined the differences in regional fMRI metrics within the cerebellum between the DCM patient group and the healthy control group, as well as their correlation with preoperative neurological status and prognosis. In analysis 2, we investigated cerebellar-cortical functional connectivity differences between the two groups and their correlation with preoperative neurological status and prognosis. Lastly, in analysis 3, we explored the internetwork connectivity between the 'cerebellar-SMN' (sensorimotor network) system, examined the between-group differences, and investigated its correlation with preoperative neurological status and prognosis. RESULTS (1) Relative to HCs, DCM patients exhibited functional alterations in wide-spread cerebellar regions; (2) DCM patients exhibited altered cerebellar-cortical FC which was associated with the preoperative neurological status and prognosis; (3) DCM patients exhibited altered internetwork connectivity between 'cerebellar-SMN' system which was associated with duration of symptom. CONCLUSION Wide-spread cerebellar functional alterations occur in DCM pathogenesis and the deficits in cerebellar-SMN functional connectivity may be beneficial in future studies for predicting surgical outcomes in patients with DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqi Ge
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xing Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Cangzhou, 061001, China
| | - Meng Liang
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300203, China
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for China, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yuan Xue
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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Khan AF, Haynes G, Mohammadi E, Muhammad F, Hameed S, Smith ZA. Utility of MRI in Quantifying Tissue Injury in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12093337. [PMID: 37176777 PMCID: PMC10179707 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a progressive disease that worsens over time if untreated. However, the rate of progression can vary among individuals and may be influenced by various factors, such as the age of the patients, underlying conditions, and the severity and location of the spinal cord compression. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help slow the progression of CSM and improve symptoms. There has been an increased use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods in diagnosing and managing CSM. MRI methods provide detailed images and quantitative structural and functional data of the cervical spinal cord and brain, allowing for an accurate evaluation of the extent and location of tissue injury. This review aims to provide an understanding of the use of MRI methods in interrogating functional and structural changes in the central nervous system in CSM. Further, we identified several challenges hindering the clinical utility of these neuroimaging methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Fahim Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Grace Haynes
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA
| | - Esmaeil Mohammadi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Fauziyya Muhammad
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Sanaa Hameed
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Zachary A Smith
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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Hejrati N, Pedro K, Alvi MA, Quddusi A, Fehlings MG. Degenerative cervical myelopathy: Where have we been? Where are we now? Where are we going? Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2023; 165:1105-1119. [PMID: 37004568 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-023-05558-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), a recently coined term, encompasses a group of age-related and genetically associated pathologies that affect the cervical spine, including cervical spondylotic myelopathy and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). Given the significant contribution of DCM to global disease and disability, there are worldwide efforts to promote research and innovation in this area. An AO Spine effort termed 'RECODE-DCM' was initiated to create an international multistakeholder consensus group, involving patients, caregivers, physicians and researchers, to focus on launching actionable discourse on DCM. In order to improve the management, treatment and results for DCM, the RECODE-DCM consensus group recently identified ten priority areas for translational research. The current article summarizes recent advancements in the field of DCM. We first discuss the comprehensive definition recently refined by the RECODE-DCM group, including steps taken to arrive at this definition and the supporting rationale. We then provide an overview of the recent advancements in our understanding of the pathophysiology of DCM and modalities to clinically assess and diagnose DCM. A focus will be set on advanced imaging techniques that may offer the opportunity to improve characterization and diagnosis of DCM. A summary of treatment modalities, including surgical and nonoperative options, is then provided along with future neuroprotective and neuroregenerative strategies. This review concludes with final remarks pertaining to the genetics involved in DCM and the opportunity to leverage this knowledge toward a personalized medicine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Hejrati
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, 399 Bathurst Street, Suite 4WW-449, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karlo Pedro
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohammed Ali Alvi
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ayesha Quddusi
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, 399 Bathurst Street, Suite 4WW-449, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada.
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Wu X, Wang Y, Chang J, Zhu K, Zhang S, Li Y, Zuo J, Chen S, Jin W, Yan T, Yang K, Xu P, Song P, Wu Y, Qian Y, Shen C, Yu Y, Dong F. Remodeling of the brain correlates with gait instability in cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1087945. [PMID: 36816111 PMCID: PMC9932596 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1087945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a common form of non-traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and usually leads to remodeling of the brain and spinal cord. In CSM with gait instability, the remodeling of the brain and cervical spinal cord is unclear. We attempted to explore the remodeling of these patients' brains and spinal cords, as well as the relationship between the remodeling of the brain and spinal cord and gait instability. Methods According to the CSM patients' gait, we divided patients into two groups: normal gait patients (nPT) and abnormal gait patients (aPT). Voxel-wise z-score transformation amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (zALFF) and resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC) were performed for estimating brain changes. Cross-sectional area (CSA) and fractional anisotropy (FA) of the spinal cord were computed by Spinal cord toolbox. Correlations of these measures and the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) score were analyzed. Results We found that the zALFF of caudate nucleus in aPT was higher than that in healthy controls (HC) and lower than that in nPT. The zALFF of the right postcentral gyrus and paracentral lobule in HC was higher than those of aPT and nPT. Compared with the nPT, the aPT showed increased functional connectivity between the caudate nucleus and left angular gyrus, bilateral precuneus and bilateral posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), which constitute a vital section of the default mode network (DMN). No significantly different FA values or CSA of spinal tracts at the C2 level were observed between the HC, nPT and aPT groups. In CSM, the right paracentral lobule's zALFF was negatively correlated with the FA value of fasciculus gracilis (FCG), and the right caudate zALFF was positively correlated with the FA value of the fasciculus cuneatus (FCC). The results showed that the functional connectivity between the right caudate nucleus and DMN was negatively correlated with the CSA of the lateral corticospinal tract (CST). Discussion The activation of the caudate nucleus and the strengthening functional connectivity between the caudate nucleus and DMN were associated with gait instability in CSM patients. Correlations between spinal cord and brain function might be related to the clinical symptoms in CSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianyong Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jianchao Chang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kun Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Siya Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Junxun Zuo
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Senlin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongcheng Branch of The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University (Feidong People’s Hospital), Hefei, China
| | - Weiming Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tingfei Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Peiwen Song
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Yuanyuan Wu,
| | - Yinfeng Qian
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Cailiang Shen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yongqiang Yu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fulong Dong
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China,*Correspondence: Fulong Dong,
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Rajan PV, Pelle DW, Savage JW. New Imaging Modalities for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy. Clin Spine Surg 2022; 35:422-430. [PMID: 36447347 DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0000000000001408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is defined as dysfunction of the spinal cord as a result of compression from degenerative changes to surrounding joints, intervertebral disks, or ligaments. Symptoms can include upper extremity numbness and diminished dexterity, difficulty with fine manipulation of objects, gait imbalance, and incoordination, and compromised bowel and bladder function. Accurate diagnosis and evaluation of the degree of impairment due to degenerative cervical myelopathy remain a challenging clinical endeavor requiring a thorough and accurate history, physical examination, and assessment of imaging findings. METHODS A narrative review is presented summarizing the current landscape of imaging modalities utilized in DCM diagnostics and the future direction of research for spinal cord imaging. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Current imaging modalities, particularly magnetic resonance imaging and, to a lesser extent, radiographs/CT, offer important information to aid in decision making but are not ideal as stand-alone tools. Newer imaging modalities currently being studied in the literature include diffusion tensor imaging, MR spectroscopy, functional magnetic resonance imaging, perfusion imaging, and positron emission tomography. These newer imaging modalities attempt to more accurately evaluate the physical structure, intrinsic connectivity, biochemical and metabolic function, and perfusion of the spinal cord in DCM. Although there are still substantial limitations to implementation, future clinical practice will likely be revolutionized by these new imaging modalities to diagnose, localize, surgically plan and manage, and follow patients with DCM.
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11
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Ahuja K, Ifthekar S, Mittal S, Yadav G, Venkata Sudhakar P, Sharma P, Venkata Subbaih A, Kandwal P. Role of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in neurological prognostication in Spinal Tuberculosis – A prospective pilot study. Eur J Radiol 2022; 157:110530. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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12
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Yang HE, Kim WT, Kim DH, Kim SW, Yoo WK. Utility of Diffusion and Magnetization Transfer MRI in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Pilot Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092090. [PMID: 36140491 PMCID: PMC9497906 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and magnetization transfer (MT) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help detect spinal cord pathology, and tract-specific analysis of their parameters, such as fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD) and MT ratio (MTR), can give microstructural information. We performed the tract-based acquisition of MR parameters of three major motor tracts: the lateral corticospinal (CS), rubrospinal (RuS) tract, and lateral reticulospinal (RS) tract as well as two major sensory tracts, i.e., the fasciculus cuneatus (FC) and spinal lemniscus, to detect pathologic change and find correlations with clinical items. MR parameters were extracted for each tract at three levels: the most compressed lesion level and above and below the lesion. We compared the MR parameters of eight cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients and 12 normal controls and analyzed the correlation between clinical evaluation items and MR parameters in patients. RuS and lateral RS showed worse DTI parameters at the lesion level in patients compared to the controls. Worse DTI parameters in those tracts were correlated with weaker power grasp at the lesion level. FC and lateral CS showed a correlation between higher RD and lower FA and MTR with a weaker lateral pinch below the lesion level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hea-Eun Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, VHS Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Korea
| | - Wan-Tae Kim
- Department of Radiology, VHS Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Kim
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Seok-Woo Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang 14068, Korea
| | - Woo-Kyoung Yoo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang 14068, Korea
- Correspondence:
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13
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Yu Z, Pan W, Chen J, Peng X, Ling Z, Zou X. Application of electrophysiological measures in degenerative cervical myelopathy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:834668. [PMID: 36016659 PMCID: PMC9395596 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.834668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is one of the leading causes of progressive spinal cord dysfunction in the elderly. Early diagnosis and treatment of DCM are essential to avoid permanent disability. The pathophysiology of DCM includes chronic ischemia, destruction of the blood–spinal cord barrier, demyelination, and neuronal apoptosis. Electrophysiological studies including electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction study (NCS), motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) are useful in detecting the presymptomatic pathological changes of the spinal cord, and thus supplementing the early clinical and radiographic examinations in the management of DCM. Preoperatively, they are helpful in detecting DCM and ruling out other diseases, assessing the spinal cord compression level and severity, predicting short- and long-term prognosis, and thus deciding the treatment methods. Intra- and postoperatively, they are also useful in monitoring neurological function change during surgeries and disease progression during follow-up rehabilitation. Here, we reviewed articles from 1979 to 2021, and tried to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based review of electrophysiological examinations in DCM. With this review, we aim to equip spinal surgeons with the basic knowledge to diagnosis and treat DCM using ancillary electrophysiological tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengran Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Spine Surgery, Orthopedics Center of Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenxu Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiacheng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinsheng Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zemin Ling
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zemin Ling, ; Xuenong Zou, ,
| | - Xuenong Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zemin Ling, ; Xuenong Zou, ,
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14
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Kauthankar AA, Jaseemudheen M. Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Spinal Cord Injury: A Review. JOURNAL OF HEALTH AND ALLIED SCIENCES NU 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1751068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMagnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a recent technique that can measure the direction and magnitude of diffusion of water. It is widely being utilized to evaluate several brain and spinal cord pathologies. The objective of this review is to evaluate the importance of the DTI in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). It aims to review various articles on DTI SCI and includes both animal and human studies. This will help to describe the current status of the clinical applications of DTI and show its potential as a helpful instrument in clinical practice. The PubMed database was searched for articles relating to the application of DTI in SCI. Relevant articles were also used for the review. A variety of DTI parameters have been studied in various articles. The standard parameters are fractional anisotropy (FA) values, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, radial diffusivity values, and axial diffusivity values, followed by tractography. FA and ADC values are the most commonly used parameters. The findings observed in most of the studies are increased FA and reduced ADC values following injury to the spinal cord. DTI data metrics possess the potential to become a potent clinical tool in patients with SCI. It is helpful for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment planning, as well as to evaluate the recovery. Nonetheless, to overcome the limitations and determine its reliability clinically, more research has to be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshada Atchut Kauthankar
- Department of Radio-diagnosis and Imaging, K S Hegde Medical Academy, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - M.M Jaseemudheen
- Department of Radio-diagnosis and Imaging, K S Hegde Medical Academy, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, Karnataka, India
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15
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Akshiitha J R, Gopinath G, Divya M, Paarthipan N. The Role of Diffusion Tensor Tractography in Assessment of Spondylotic Myelopathy. Cureus 2022; 14:e25778. [PMID: 35706439 PMCID: PMC9187187 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) describes a neurological deficit related to the spinal cord due to the changes in the facet joints and discs of the cervical spine as a result of degeneration. Diagnosis is mainly dependent on imaging. Diffusion tensor tractography (DTT), being a non-invasive technique, shows better sensitivity when compared to the conventional T2WI sequence in the early detection of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). The objective was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in predicting high T2 signals in CSM. Methods A prospective observational study was done on 47 subjects aged between 25 and 70 years, referred to the department of radiology with clinical and imaging evidence of CSM in a tertiary care institute in Chennai. Nurick classification system was used to assess severity clinically. Diffusion-weighted imaging and DTT were done with 1.5 Tesla MRI. The primary outcome variable was a high T2 signal. Mean fractional anisotropy (FA) at the stenotic level and ADC value at a stenotic level were considered explanatory variables. The sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and diagnostic accuracy of the screening test with the decided cut-off values along with their 95% CI were presented. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. SPSS version 22 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York) was used for statistical analysis. Results The mean age was 48.26 ± 10.28 years. The majority (72.34%) were males, the majority (42.55%) had a Nurick score of two, and 25.53% had a Nurick score of one. Twenty-six (55.32%) reported a high T2 signal, 36 (76.60%) had elevated ADC, and 11 (23.40 %) had no elevated ADC. There was a statistically significant difference in mean FA and ADC values across groups categorized as non-stenotic level and stenotic level (p-value <0.05). The ADC value had a moderately high sensitivity (76.92%) and low specificity (23.81%) in predicting high T2 signals with a diagnostic accuracy of 53.19%. Conclusion DTI parameters at stenotic level (ADC and FA values) in patients with cervical spondylosis help in the early detection of cervical cord compressive myelopathy prior to the appearance of T2 signal changes in conventional MRI, thereby improving clinical outcome and patient management.
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16
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Liang S, Yang F, Zhang Y, Zhao H, Wang X. Changes and clinical correlation of diffusion tensor imaging parameters of compressed spinal cord and nerve root in patients with cervical spondylosis. BMC Med Imaging 2022; 22:107. [PMID: 35659198 PMCID: PMC9166510 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-022-00835-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to quantitatively study the characteristics of the related spinal cord and nerve root compression parameters in patients with cervical spondylosis (CS), and diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) was used to visualize the spinal cord and nerve root and analyze their relevance to clinical evaluation. METHODS A total of 67 patients with CS and 30 healthy volunteers received 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging. Cervical DTI and DTT were performed in all the participants, where the b value of DTI was set at 800 s/mm2. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the spinal cord and cervical nerve roots were measured by using DTI. Patients with CS were scored according to the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) score. RESULTS In all the participants, the spinal cord and cervical nerve roots were clearly visible by DTT. Compared to the healthy volunteers, the FA values were significantly decreased and ADC values were significantly increased in patients with CS. mJOA score was significantly correlated with the DTI index (ADC and FA) values. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis revealed that FA and ADC could identify mild, moderate, and severe CS. CONCLUSIONS DTI parameters of cervical spinal cord and nerve root compression are associated with the clinical evaluation of patients with CS and may be helpful in assessing the severity of CS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Liang
- Department of Radiology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Feng Yang
- Department of Radiology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Huiyu Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Department of Radiology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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Valošek J, Bednařík P, Keřkovský M, Hluštík P, Bednařík J, Svatkova A. Quantitative MR Markers in Non-Myelopathic Spinal Cord Compression: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2022; 11:2301. [PMID: 35566426 PMCID: PMC9105390 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11092301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Degenerative spinal cord compression is a frequent pathological condition with increasing prevalence throughout aging. Initial non-myelopathic cervical spinal cord compression (NMDC) might progress over time into potentially irreversible degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). While quantitative MRI (qMRI) techniques demonstrated the ability to depict intrinsic tissue properties, longitudinal in-vivo biomarkers to identify NMDC patients who will eventually develop DCM are still missing. Thus, we aim to review the ability of qMRI techniques (such as diffusion MRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), magnetization transfer (MT) imaging, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS)) to serve as prognostic markers in NMDC. While DTI in NMDC patients consistently detected lower fractional anisotropy and higher mean diffusivity at compressed levels, caused by demyelination and axonal injury, MT and 1H-MRS, along with advanced and tract-specific diffusion MRI, recently revealed microstructural alterations, also rostrally pointing to Wallerian degeneration. Recent studies also disclosed a significant relationship between microstructural damage and functional deficits, as assessed by qMRI and electrophysiology, respectively. Thus, tract-specific qMRI, in combination with electrophysiology, critically extends our understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of degenerative spinal cord compression and may provide predictive markers of DCM development for accurate patient management. However, the prognostic value must be validated in longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Valošek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (P.H.)
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Bednařík
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark;
- Department of Radiology, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Miloš Keřkovský
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (M.K.); (J.B.)
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Brno, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Hluštík
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (P.H.)
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Bednařík
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (M.K.); (J.B.)
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Svatkova
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark;
- Department of Radiology, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Martin AR, Tetreault L, Nouri A, Curt A, Freund P, Rahimi-Movaghar V, Wilson JR, Fehlings MG, Kwon BK, Harrop JS, Davies BM, Kotter MRN, Guest JD, Aarabi B, Kurpad SN. Imaging and Electrophysiology for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 9]. Global Spine J 2022; 12:130S-146S. [PMID: 34797993 PMCID: PMC8859711 DOI: 10.1177/21925682211057484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Narrative review. OBJECTIVE The current review aimed to describe the role of existing techniques and emerging methods of imaging and electrophysiology for the management of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), a common and often progressive condition that causes spinal cord dysfunction and significant morbidity globally. METHODS A narrative review was conducted to summarize the existing literature and highlight future directions. RESULTS Anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is well established in the literature as the key imaging tool to identify spinal cord compression, disc herniation/bulging, and inbuckling of the ligamentum flavum, thus facilitating surgical planning, while radiographs and computed tomography (CT) provide complimentary information. Electrophysiology techniques are primarily used to rule out competing diagnoses. However, signal change and measures of cord compression on conventional MRI have limited utility to characterize the degree of tissue injury, which may be helpful for diagnosis, prognostication, and repeated assessments to identify deterioration. Early translational studies of quantitative imaging and electrophysiology techniques show potential of these methods to more accurately reflect changes in spinal cord microstructure and function. CONCLUSION Currently, clinical management of DCM relies heavily on anatomical MRI, with additional contributions from radiographs, CT, and electrophysiology. Novel quantitative assessments of microstructure, perfusion, and function have the potential to transform clinical practice, but require robust validation, automation, and standardization prior to uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan R Martin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, 8789University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Lindsay Tetreault
- Department of Neurology, 5894New York University, Langone Health, Graduate Medical Education, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aria Nouri
- Division of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Hospitals, 27230University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Armin Curt
- University Spine Center, 31031Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Freund
- University Spine Center, 31031Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, 48439Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jefferson R Wilson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brian K Kwon
- Vancouver Spine Surgery Institute, Department of Orthopedics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - James S Harrop
- Department of Neurological Surgery, 6529Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin M Davies
- Department of Neurosurgery, 2152University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark R N Kotter
- Department of Neurosurgery, 2152University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - James D Guest
- Department of Neurosurgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Miller School of Medicine, 12235University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Bizhan Aarabi
- Department of Neurosurgery, 1479University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shekar N Kurpad
- Department of Neurosurgery, 5506Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
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Valošek J, Labounek R, Horák T, Horáková M, Bednařík P, Keřkovský M, Kočica J, Rohan T, Lenglet C, Cohen-Adad J, Hluštík P, Vlčková E, Kadaňka Z, Bednařík J, Svatkova A. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging reveals tract-specific microstructural correlates of electrophysiological impairments in non-myelopathic and myelopathic spinal cord compression. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:3784-3797. [PMID: 34288268 PMCID: PMC8530898 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Non-myelopathic degenerative cervical spinal cord compression (NMDC) frequently occurs throughout aging and may progress to potentially irreversible degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). Whereas standard clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electrophysiological measures assess compression severity and neurological dysfunction, respectively, underlying microstructural deficits still have to be established in NMDC and DCM patients. The study aims to establish tract-specific diffusion MRI markers of electrophysiological deficits to predict the progression of asymptomatic NMDC to symptomatic DCM. METHODS High-resolution 3 T diffusion MRI was acquired for 103 NMDC and 21 DCM patients compared to 60 healthy controls to reveal diffusion alterations and relationships between tract-specific diffusion metrics and corresponding electrophysiological measures and compression severity. Relationship between the degree of DCM disability, assessed by the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scale, and tract-specific microstructural changes in DCM patients was also explored. RESULTS The study identified diffusion-derived abnormalities in the gray matter, dorsal and lateral tracts congruent with trans-synaptic degeneration and demyelination in chronic degenerative spinal cord compression with more profound alterations in DCM than NMDC. Diffusion metrics were affected in the C3-6 area as well as above the compression level at C3 with more profound rostral deficits in DCM than NMDC. Alterations in lateral motor and dorsal sensory tracts correlated with motor and sensory evoked potentials, respectively, whereas electromyography outcomes corresponded with gray matter microstructure. DCM disability corresponded with microstructure alteration in lateral columns. CONCLUSIONS Outcomes imply the necessity of high-resolution tract-specific diffusion MRI for monitoring degenerative spinal pathology in longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Valošek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czechia.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Hospital, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - René Labounek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czechia.,Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tomáš Horák
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Magda Horáková
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Petr Bednařík
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,High Field MR Centre, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Miloš Keřkovský
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jan Kočica
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Rohan
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Christophe Lenglet
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Julien Cohen-Adad
- NeuroPoly Lab, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Polytechnique Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Functional Neuroimaging Unit, CRIUGM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Mila - Quebec AI Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Petr Hluštík
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Eva Vlčková
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Zdeněk Kadaňka
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Josef Bednařík
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Alena Svatkova
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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20
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Antkowiak L, Rogalska M, Stogowski P, Anuszkiewicz K, Mandera M. Clinical Application of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Chiari Malformation Type I- Advances and Perspectives. A Systematic Review. World Neurosurg 2021; 152:124-136. [PMID: 34147690 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.06.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) application in Chiari malformation type I (CMI) is still poorly defined. This study aimed to systematically review the literature and propose perspectives toward the clinical application of DTI in CMI. METHODS PubMed and Embase were searched for English-language articles published until October 20, 2020. Clinical studies and case series, evaluating fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), or radial diffusivity values in patients with CMI, were included. RESULTS Eight articles were included. Lower FA values were found at the syrinx level, which decreased with syrinx extent and intensity of symptoms, reflecting myelopathy severity. Decreased AD and MD in the middle cerebellar peduncles in symptomatic patients with CMI might explain the presence of cerebellar signs. Increased FA in various supratentorial structures positively correlated with pain severity. Worse performance in neuropsychological tests correlated with decreased FA, increased MD, and radial diffusivity, reflecting axonal degeneration. Postoperative FA decrease in the brainstem compression area reflects successful decompression. A positive correlation was found between the extent of tonsillar ectopia and increased FA, MD, and AD values, which could act as an early indicator of acute brainstem compression. CONCLUSIONS DTI might provide a valuable insight into the neurobiological foundation of symptomatic CMI presentation. The severity of white matter injury evident on DTI could serve as a reliable predictor of postoperative outcomes, therefore facilitating selection of appropriate surgical candidates. Postinterventional DTI reassessment might enable differentiation between unsuccessful surgical technique and irreversible myelopathy. The extent of tonsillar ectopia reflects the severity of microstructural brainstem injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Antkowiak
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Marta Rogalska
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Stogowski
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - Marek Mandera
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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21
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Jimenez KA, Kwon JW, Yoon J, Lee HM, Moon SH, Suk KS, Kim HS, Lee BH. Handgrip Strength Correlated with Falling Risk in Patients with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10091980. [PMID: 34062994 PMCID: PMC8125546 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Few studies have investigated associations between hand grip strength (HGS) and the surgical outcomes of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). Methods: This study was designed as a prospective observational study of 203 patients who had undergone fusion surgery for DCM. We divided the patients according to sex and HGS differences. Clinical outcome parameters, including HGS, a fall diary and four functional mobility tests (alternative step test, six-meter walk test, timed up and go test, and sit-to-stand test) were measured preoperatively, at 3 months and 1 year after surgery. Results: Mean patient ages were 59.93 years in the male group and 67.33 years in the female group (p = 0.000; independent t-test). The mean HGS of both hands improved significantly at postoperative 3 months and 1 year in all patients (p = 0.000 for both; ANOVA). In male patients, preoperative risk of falls was negatively correlated with HGS (p = 0.000). In female patients, pre- and postoperative risk of falls were correlated negatively with HGS (p = 0.000). The postoperative incidence of falls decreased in both groups (p = 0.000) Conclusions: Postoperative HGS in patients with DCM is correlated with postoperative falls and functional outcome differently, when comparing male and female patients, for predicting favorable outcomes and neurologic deficit recovery after surgery in DCM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Anne Jimenez
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Ji-Won Kwon
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jayeong Yoon
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hwan-Mo Lee
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Seong-Hwan Moon
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Suk
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hak-Sun Kim
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Byung Ho Lee
- Orthopedic Department, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
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22
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Smith SS, Stewart ME, Davies BM, Kotter MRN. The Prevalence of Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Spinal Cord Compression on Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Global Spine J 2021; 11:597-607. [PMID: 32677521 PMCID: PMC8119927 DOI: 10.1177/2192568220934496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. OBJECTIVES Cervical spinal cord compression (SCC) due to degenerative changes of the spine is a frequent finding on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). While most people remain asymptomatic, a proportion develop symptoms of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). DCM is an often-progressive neurological disease that can cause quadriplegia. The epidemiology of SCC and DCM is poorly understood. We sought to estimate the prevalence of degenerative cervical SCC and DCM from cross-sectional cohorts undergoing MRI. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of MRI reports on human subjects older than 16 years with degenerative SCC. A predetermined search strategy was used to identify relevant literature on MEDLINE. Title and abstract screenings were followed by full text screening. Data was extracted and analyzed by fixed or random-effects models. RESULTS The present search returned 1506 publications. Following our exclusion criteria, 19 studies were included. Subgroup analysis of 3786 individuals estimated the prevalence of asymptomatic SCC in a healthy population as 24.2% with a significantly higher prevalence of SCC in older populations compared with younger populations and American/European populations compared with Asian populations. Subgroup analysis of 1202 individuals estimated the prevalence of DCM in a healthy population as 2.3%. CONCLUSIONS We present the first estimates of the prevalence of asymptomatic SCC and DCM. Studies investigating the epidemiology of SCC are heterogeneous in methodology and results. These data indicate the need for more studies into the epidemiology of SCC and DCM performed with consistent methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mark R. N. Kotter
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK,Mark R. N. Kotter, Department of Clinical
Neurosciences, Anne McLaren Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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23
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Labounek R, Valošek J, Horák T, Svátková A, Bednařík P, Vojtíšek L, Horáková M, Nestrašil I, Lenglet C, Cohen-Adad J, Bednařík J, Hluštík P. HARDI-ZOOMit protocol improves specificity to microstructural changes in presymptomatic myelopathy. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17529. [PMID: 33067520 PMCID: PMC7567840 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70297-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) proved promising in patients with non-myelopathic degenerative cervical cord compression (NMDCCC), i.e., without clinically manifested myelopathy. Aim of the study is to present a fast multi-shell HARDI-ZOOMit dMRI protocol and validate its usability to detect microstructural myelopathy in NMDCCC patients. In 7 young healthy volunteers, 13 age-comparable healthy controls, 18 patients with mild NMDCCC and 15 patients with severe NMDCCC, the protocol provided higher signal-to-noise ratio, enhanced visualization of white/gray matter structures in microstructural maps, improved dMRI metric reproducibility, preserved sensitivity (SE = 87.88%) and increased specificity (SP = 92.31%) of control-patient group differences when compared to DTI-RESOLVE protocol (SE = 87.88%, SP = 76.92%). Of the 56 tested microstructural parameters, HARDI-ZOOMit yielded significant patient-control differences in 19 parameters, whereas in DTI-RESOLVE data, differences were observed in 10 parameters, with mostly lower robustness. Novel marker the white-gray matter diffusivity gradient demonstrated the highest separation. HARDI-ZOOMit protocol detected larger number of crossing fibers (5–15% of voxels) with physiologically plausible orientations than DTI-RESOLVE protocol (0–8% of voxels). Crossings were detected in areas of dorsal horns and anterior white commissure. HARDI-ZOOMit protocol proved to be a sensitive and practical tool for clinical quantitative spinal cord imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Labounek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00, Olomouc, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology, Palacký University, 779 00, Olomouc, Czech Republic.,Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Jan Valošek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00, Olomouc, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology, Palacký University, 779 00, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Horák
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Svátková
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Imaging Methods, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, 701 03, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Bednařík
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,High Field MR Centre, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lubomír Vojtíšek
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Magda Horáková
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Igor Nestrašil
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA.,Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Christophe Lenglet
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Julien Cohen-Adad
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Polytechnique Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Josef Bednařík
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brno, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Hluštík
- Department of Neurology, Palacký University, 779 00, Olomouc, Czech Republic. .,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
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24
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Lee E, Lee JW, Bae YJ, Kim HJ, Kang Y, Ahn JM. Reliability of pre-operative diffusion tensor imaging parameter measurements of the cervical spine in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17410. [PMID: 33060848 PMCID: PMC7566607 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study assessed test–retest and inter-observer reliability of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), as well as the agreement among measurement methods. A total 34 patients (12 men, 22 women; mean age, 58.7 [range 45–79] years) who underwent surgical decompression for CSM, with pre-operative DTI scans available, were retrospectively enrolled. Four observers independently measured fractional anisotropy (FA) values twice, using three different measurement methods. Test–retest and inter-observer reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Overall, inter-observer agreements varied according to spinal cord level and the measurement methods used, and ranged from poor to excellent agreement (ICC = 0.374–0.821), with relatively less agreement for the sagittal region of interest (ROI) method. The radiology resident and neuro-radiologist group showed excellent test–retest reliability at almost every spinal cord level (ICC = 0.887–0.997), but inter-observer agreements varied from fair to good (ICC = 0.404–0.747). Despite excellent test–retest reliability of the ROI measurements, FA measurements in patients with CSM varied widely in terms of inter-observer reliability. Therefore, DTI parameter data should be interpreted carefully when applied clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166, Gumi-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, 463-707, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Joon Woo Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166, Gumi-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, 463-707, Gyeonggi-do, Korea.
| | - Yun Jung Bae
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166, Gumi-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, 463-707, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166, Gumi-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, 463-707, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Yusuhn Kang
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166, Gumi-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, 463-707, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Joong Mo Ahn
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166, Gumi-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, 463-707, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
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25
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Zhang H, Guan L, Hai Y, Liu Y, Ding H, Chen X. Multi-shot echo-planar diffusion tensor imaging in cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Bone Joint J 2020; 102-B:1210-1218. [PMID: 32862690 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.102b9.bjj-2020-0468.r1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to use diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to investigate changes in diffusion metrics in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) up to five years after decompressive surgery. We correlated these changes with clinical outcomes as scored by the Modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) method, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). METHODS We used multi-shot, high-resolution, diffusion tensor imaging (ms-DTI) in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) to investigate the change in diffusion metrics and clinical outcomes up to five years after anterior cervical interbody discectomy and fusion (ACDF). High signal intensity was identified on T2-weighted imaging, along with DTI metrics such as fractional anisotropy (FA). MJOA, NDI, and VAS scores were also collected and compared at each follow-up point. Spearman correlations identified correspondence between FA and clinical outcome scores. RESULTS Significant differences in mJOA scores and FA values were found between preoperative and postoperative timepoints up to two years after surgery. FA at the level of maximum cord compression (MCL) preoperatively was significantly correlated with the preoperative mJOA score. FA postoperatively was also significantly correlated with the postoperative mJOA score. There was no statistical relationship between NDI and mJOA or VAS. CONCLUSION ms-DTI can detect microstructural changes in affected cord segments and reflect functional improvement. Both FA values and mJOA scores showed maximum recovery two years after surgery. The DTI metrics are significantly associated with pre- and postoperative mJOA scores. DTI metrics are a more sensitive, timely, and quantifiable surrogate for evaluating patients with CSM and a potential quantifiable biomarker for spinal cord dysfunction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1210-1218.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanwen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Guan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Hai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuzeng Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongtao Ding
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolong Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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26
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Han X, Ma X, Li D, Wang J, Jiang W, Cheng X, Li G, Guo H, Tian W. The Evaluation and Prediction of Laminoplasty Surgery Outcome in Patients with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy Using Diffusion Tensor MRI. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2020; 41:1745-1753. [PMID: 32816762 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE DTI has been proved valuable for the diagnosis of degenerative cervical myelopathy, whereas its capacity for predicting the outcome of surgery is still under debate. Here we conduct a prospective cohort study to analyze the capacity of DTI for evaluating and predicting laminoplasty surgery outcome for degenerative cervical myelopathy. MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited 55 patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy who underwent DTI before surgery and at 3- and 6-month follow-up stages, and 20 healthy subjects. For clinical assessment, the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale was recorded for each patient at different stages. DTI metrics were compared between patients before surgery and healthy subjects. Spearman correlation and receiver operating characteristic were used to analyze the evaluation and prediction capacity of DTI for the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale, respectively. We analyzed different vertebral levels: maximal compression level, average of all compression levels, and C2 level. RESULTS DTI metrics were significantly different between patients before surgery and healthy subjects. Before surgery, DTI for the maximal compression level or DTI for the average of all compression levels had no significant correlation with the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale. For all stages, DTI at the C2 level was correlated with the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale. DTI metrics at the C2 level before surgery were significantly correlated with the postoperative modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale recovery rate. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that fractional anisotropy at C2 was capable of predicting the postoperative modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale recovery rate (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS The DTI metrics before laminoplasty surgery, especially fractional anisotropy at the C2 level, have the potential for evaluating and predicting the degenerative cervical myelopathy surgery outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Han
- From the Department of Spine Surgery (X.H., D.L., J.W., W.T.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics (X.H.), Beijing, China
| | - X Ma
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (X.M.), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - D Li
- From the Department of Spine Surgery (X.H., D.L., J.W., W.T.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Center of Gerontology (D.L.), Beijing, China
| | - J Wang
- From the Department of Spine Surgery (X.H., D.L., J.W., W.T.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - W Jiang
- Department of Radiology (W.J., X.C., G.L.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - X Cheng
- Department of Radiology (W.J., X.C., G.L.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - G Li
- Department of Radiology (W.J., X.C., G.L.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - H Guo
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research (H.F.), Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - W Tian
- From the Department of Spine Surgery (X.H., D.L., J.W., W.T.), Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
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27
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Progression Prediction of Mild Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy by Somatosensory-evoked Potentials. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2020; 45:E560-E567. [PMID: 31770314 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000003348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study to correlate classification of somatosensory-evoked potentials (SEPs) with symptomatic progress of patients with mild cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of SEPs for predicting symptomatic progress of mild CSM. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA SEPs have been used for clinical diagnosis and intraoperative neuromonitoring in patients with CSM. However, the prognostic value of SEPs in predicting the progression of CSM remains unclear. METHODS A total of 200 patients with a clinical diagnosis of mild CSM were enrolled between September 2014 and February 2018. All patients received clinical assessment with the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale (mJOA), magnetic resonance imaging, and SEP tests in the first clinical visit and at 1-year follow-up. A classification of upper and lower limbs SEP was developed. At 1-year follow-up, patients with symptom decline >2 points in mJOA were considered progressive myelopathy cases. The relationship of progressive myelopathy and classifications of SEP was investigated. RESULTS Fifty-four of 200 cases presented with progressive myelopathy. The incidence of progressive myelopathy was 2.6%, 27.7%, 23.8%, 86.7%, and 100% in Class I, II, III, IV, and V of upper SEPs, respectively, and 18.8%, 39.4%, 42.3%, and 62.5% in Class I, II, III, and IV of lower SEPs, respectively. For the combination classification of upper and lower SEPs, the incidence of progressive myelopathy was 0%, 13.7%, 24.3%, 91.1%, and 100% in Class I, II, III, IV, and V, respectively. There was a significant correlation of the incidence of progressive myelopathy with SEP classification for the upper SEPs (r = 0.94, P < 0.01) and the combination SEPs (r = 0.95, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The incidence of progressive degenerative myelopathy increased with the upper and combination SEP classifications. Thus, classification of SEPs could predict the clinical decline in mJOA in CSM, reflecting the probability of worsening of myelopathy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.
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28
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Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: How to Identify the Best Responders to Surgery? J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9030759. [PMID: 32168833 PMCID: PMC7141260 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9030759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Surgery is the only definitive treatment for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), however, the degree of neurological recovery is often unpredictable. Here, we assess the utility of a multidimensional diagnostic approach, consisting of clinical, neurophysiological, and radiological parameters, to identify patients likely to benefit most from surgery. Thirty-six consecutive patients were prospectively analyzed using the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) score, MEPs/SSEPs and advance and conventional MRI parameters, at baseline, and 3- and 12-month postoperatively. Patients were subdivided into “normal” and “best” responders (<50%, ≥50% improvement in mJOA), and correlation between Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) parameters, mJOA, and MEP/SSEP latencies were examined. Twenty patients were “best” responders and 16 were “normal responders”, but there were no statistical differences in age, T2 hyperintensity, and midsagittal diameter between them. There was a significant inverse correlation between the MEPs central conduction time and mJOA in the preoperative period (p = 0.0004), and a positive correlation between fractional anisotropy (FA) and mJOA during all the phases of the study, and statistically significant at 1-year (r = 0.66, p = 0.0005). FA was significantly higher amongst “best responders” compared to “normal responders” preoperatively and at 1-year (p = 0.02 and p = 0.009). A preoperative FA > 0.55 was predictor of a better postoperative outcome. Overall, these results support the concept of a multidisciplinary approach in the assessment and management of DCM.
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Noguerol TM, Barousse R, Amrhein TJ, Royuela-del-Val J, Montesinos P, Luna A. Optimizing Diffusion-Tensor Imaging Acquisition for Spinal Cord Assessment: Physical Basis and Technical Adjustments. Radiographics 2020; 40:403-427. [DOI: 10.1148/rg.2020190058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teodoro Martín Noguerol
- From the MRI Section, Department of Radiology, SERCOSA, Health Time, Carmelo Torres 2, 23007, Jaén, Spain (T.M.N., A.L.); Peripheral Nerve and Plexus Department, Centro Rossi, Buenos Aires, Argentina (R.B.); Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C. (T.J.A.); RESSALTA, Health Time, Córdoba, Spain (J.R.d.V.); and Philips Iberia, Madrid, Spain (P.M.)
| | - Rafael Barousse
- From the MRI Section, Department of Radiology, SERCOSA, Health Time, Carmelo Torres 2, 23007, Jaén, Spain (T.M.N., A.L.); Peripheral Nerve and Plexus Department, Centro Rossi, Buenos Aires, Argentina (R.B.); Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C. (T.J.A.); RESSALTA, Health Time, Córdoba, Spain (J.R.d.V.); and Philips Iberia, Madrid, Spain (P.M.)
| | - Timothy J. Amrhein
- From the MRI Section, Department of Radiology, SERCOSA, Health Time, Carmelo Torres 2, 23007, Jaén, Spain (T.M.N., A.L.); Peripheral Nerve and Plexus Department, Centro Rossi, Buenos Aires, Argentina (R.B.); Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C. (T.J.A.); RESSALTA, Health Time, Córdoba, Spain (J.R.d.V.); and Philips Iberia, Madrid, Spain (P.M.)
| | - Javier Royuela-del-Val
- From the MRI Section, Department of Radiology, SERCOSA, Health Time, Carmelo Torres 2, 23007, Jaén, Spain (T.M.N., A.L.); Peripheral Nerve and Plexus Department, Centro Rossi, Buenos Aires, Argentina (R.B.); Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C. (T.J.A.); RESSALTA, Health Time, Córdoba, Spain (J.R.d.V.); and Philips Iberia, Madrid, Spain (P.M.)
| | - Paula Montesinos
- From the MRI Section, Department of Radiology, SERCOSA, Health Time, Carmelo Torres 2, 23007, Jaén, Spain (T.M.N., A.L.); Peripheral Nerve and Plexus Department, Centro Rossi, Buenos Aires, Argentina (R.B.); Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C. (T.J.A.); RESSALTA, Health Time, Córdoba, Spain (J.R.d.V.); and Philips Iberia, Madrid, Spain (P.M.)
| | - Antonio Luna
- From the MRI Section, Department of Radiology, SERCOSA, Health Time, Carmelo Torres 2, 23007, Jaén, Spain (T.M.N., A.L.); Peripheral Nerve and Plexus Department, Centro Rossi, Buenos Aires, Argentina (R.B.); Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C. (T.J.A.); RESSALTA, Health Time, Córdoba, Spain (J.R.d.V.); and Philips Iberia, Madrid, Spain (P.M.)
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Hassan TAAEH, Assad RE, Belal SA. MR diffusion tensor imaging of the spinal cord: can it help in early detection of cervical spondylotic myelopathy and assessment of its severity? THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-019-0072-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential application of MR diffusion tensor imaging (with calculation of fractional anisotropy (FA) values) in assessment of the spondylotic cervical spinal canal compromise and comparison with the information issued from conventional MR sequences for early detection of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Thirty patients (11 males and 19 females) were included in this study; age ranged from 22 to 70 years (mean age = 44). All patients had conventional and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) examinations of the cervical spine for detection and assessment of degree of cervical cord myelopathy. FA values of the whole cord circumference and at 3, 6, 9, 12 o’clock positions of the normal cord (opposite to C2), opposite to the most affected disc, and below the level of the most affected disc were measured.
Results
High statistically significant P values were obtained when comparing the FA values of the normal cord with the cord opposite to the most affected disc, the normal cord with the cord below the affected disc and the cord at the level of the most affected disc with the cord below the level of the most affected disc.
Conclusions
DTI of the cervical spinal cord with FA measurement in patients with cervical spondylosis helps in early detection of cervical cord compressive myelopathy prior to appearance of changes in conventional MRI, which can improve the clinical outcome and help in treatment plans.
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David G, Mohammadi S, Martin AR, Cohen-Adad J, Weiskopf N, Thompson A, Freund P. Traumatic and nontraumatic spinal cord injury: pathological insights from neuroimaging. Nat Rev Neurol 2019; 15:718-731. [PMID: 31673093 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-019-0270-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Pathophysiological changes in the spinal cord white and grey matter resulting from injury can be observed with MRI techniques. These techniques provide sensitive markers of macrostructural and microstructural tissue integrity, which correlate with histological findings. Spinal cord MRI findings in traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) and nontraumatic spinal cord injury - the most common form of which is degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) - have provided important insights into the pathophysiological processes taking place not just at the focal injury site but also rostral and caudal to the spinal injury. Although tSCI and DCM have different aetiologies, they show similar degrees of spinal cord pathology remote from the injury site, suggesting the involvement of similar secondary degenerative mechanisms. Advanced quantitative MRI protocols that are sensitive to spinal cord pathology have the potential to improve diagnosis and, more importantly, predict outcomes in patients with tSCI or nontraumatic spinal cord injury. This Review describes the insights into tSCI and DCM that have been revealed by neuroimaging and outlines current activities and future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergely David
- Spinal Cord Injury Center Balgrist, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Siawoosh Mohammadi
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Allan R Martin
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julien Cohen-Adad
- NeuroPoly Lab, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Polytechnique Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nikolaus Weiskopf
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK.,Department of Neurophysics, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alan Thompson
- Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Patrick Freund
- Spinal Cord Injury Center Balgrist, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK. .,Department of Neurophysics, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany. .,Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK. .,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Mańczak M, Pracoń G, Sudoł-Szopińska I, Gasik R. Apparent diffusion coefficient as an indicator of spinal cord compression due to anterior atlanto-axial subluxation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2019; 28:2352-2358. [PMID: 31309334 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-019-06058-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) as a potential parameter of spinal cord damage in cervical spine instability at the atlanto-axial level in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. METHODS One hundred and six RA patients were included in the study. MRI examinations were performed with 1.5T scanner. The ADC was measured at six locations in the cervical spinal cord at the height of the first six cervical vertebrae (from C-1 to C-6). The ADC values were assessed in 2 groups: with and without anterior atlanto-axial subluxation (AAS) diagnosed on plain radiographs. Correlations between ADC values and radiographic measurements and RA activity indicators were evaluated. RESULTS The ADC values at C1 level (ADC1) was higher in the group with anterior AAS than in the group without AAS (p < 0.001). Statistically significant moderate positive correlation between ADC1 and anterior atlanto-axial diameter interval AADI (rho = 0.58; p < 0.008) was found as well as statistically significant weak negative correlation between ADC1 and posterior atlanto-axial diameter interval PADI (rho = - 0.34; p < 0.008). CONCLUSIONS The conducted study demonstrates the applicability of the ADC maps in the identification of spinal cord compression due to anterior AAS in RA patients. The results encourage the practical use of the ADC as an additional parameter in the qualification for surgical treatment. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Mańczak
- Department of Gerontology, Public Health and Didactics, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Grzegorz Pracoń
- Department of Radiology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Iwona Sudoł-Szopińska
- Department of Radiology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert Gasik
- Department of Neuroorthopaedics and Neurology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland
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Juliano AF, Policeni B, Agarwal V, Burns J, Bykowski J, Harvey HB, Hoang JK, Hunt CH, Kennedy TA, Moonis G, Pannell JS, Parsons MS, Powers WJ, Rosenow JM, Schroeder JW, Slavin K, Whitehead MT, Corey AS. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Ataxia. J Am Coll Radiol 2019; 16:S44-S56. [PMID: 31054758 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Zheng W, Chen H, Wang N, Liang Y, Xiao W, Xiong W, Zhong B, Ju H, Luo J, Jiang X, Wen S. Application of Diffusion Tensor Imaging Cutoff Value to Evaluate the Severity and Postoperative Neurologic Recovery of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. World Neurosurg 2018; 118:e849-e855. [PMID: 30026160 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.07.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role in the assessment of spinal cord status for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) also is a novel investigation tool with good sensitivity to detect changes in CSM, but it is not routinely used in spinal cord evaluation. METHODS Sixty-six patients with CSM who required surgical decompression were included. All the patients were divided into 4 subgroups according to Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) recovery rate. A 3.0T MR system was applied to obtain DTI of the spinal cord. Clinical assessment was performed with the JOA scores system. RESULTS DTI data of 61 patients were available for further analysis in this study. No significant differences in age, sex, cervical curvature, surgical approach, and preoperative JOA score between the 4 subgroups were found (P > 0.05). Significant differences in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) (P < 0.0001), mean diffusivity (MD), (P < 0.0001), axial diffusivity (AD) (P = 0.0459), and radial diffusivity (RD) (P < 0.0001) values were found between the 4 groups. The ADC (P < 0.0001), MD (P < 0.0001), AD (P = 0.0434), and RD (P < 0.0001) values were significantly correlated with JOA recovery rate. Cutoff values of ADC, MD, AD, and RD in this study were 1.378*10-3, 1.378*10-3, 2.386*10-3, and 0.894*10-3 mm2/s, respectively. CONCLUSION DTI was closely related to the severity of CSM, and cutoff values of DTI enabled the surgeons to predict the surgical outcomes in patients with CSM. These evaluation metrics may reflect the pathologic conditions of the spinal cord quantitatively, and potentially evaluate the functional status of spinal cords.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weipeng Zheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoyi Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - YingJie Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Wende Xiao
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weifeng Xiong
- Department of Radiology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Bofu Zhong
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongbin Ju
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Junnan Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shifeng Wen
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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Longitudinal brain activation changes related to electrophysiological findings in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy before and after spinal cord decompression: an fMRI study. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2018; 160:923-932. [PMID: 29574593 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-018-3520-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction, potentially leading to severe disability. Abnormal cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) are independent predictors of disease progression. Abnormal MRI is accompanied by various activation changes in functional brain MRI (fMRI), whereas preoperative and postoperative fMRI adaptations associated with abnormal preoperative MEP remain unknown. METHODS Twenty patients (9 males, average age 56.6) with evidence of spinal cord compression on MRI and clinical signs of mild CSM were included. Participants were classified according to their preoperative MEP and underwent three brain fMRI examinations: before surgery, 6, and 12 months after surgery while performing repeated extension-flexion of each wrist. RESULTS Functional MRI activation was compared between two subsets of patients, with normal and clearly abnormal MEP (right wrist: 8 vs. 8; left wrist: 7 vs. 9). At baseline, abnormal MEPs were associated with hyperactivation in the cerebellum. At the first follow-up, further hyperactivations emerged in the contralateral sensorimotor cortices and persisted for 1 year. In normal baseline MEP, activation mostly decreased in the ipsilateral sensorimotor cortex postoperatively. The ipsilateral sensorimotor activation after 1-year follow-up correlated with baseline MEP. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal corticospinal MEP findings in cervical spondylotic myelopathy were associated with differences in brain activation, which further increased after spinal cord decompression and did not resolve within 12-month follow-up. In summary, surgery may come too late for those patients with abnormal MEP to recover completely despite their mild clinical signs and symptoms.
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Wright D, Martin S, Pereira EA, Kong Y, Tracey I, Cadoux-Hudson T. High field structural MRI in the management of degenerative cervical myelopathy. Br J Neurosurg 2018; 32:595-598. [PMID: 29688066 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2018.1467371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: This is a narrative overview of the pathophysiology, investigation and management of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM). This review article also takes a look ahead to the impact high resolution MRI may have on treatment.Background: DCM is the most common cause of spinal dysfunction and yet it remains poorly understood. It is becoming increasingly common in our ageing population. Disc and facet joint abnormalities, osteophytes, spondylothisthesis and ligamentous hypertrophy all act together to produce spinal canal and neuronal foramina stenosis which in turn causes neural compromise. Its impact on the quality of life of this patient group and the wider economy is vast. Some patients with overt cord compression and MRI signal change in their cervical cord may only have subtle clinical signs whilst others with less striking imaging may be profoundly myelopathic. Who to operate on and when remains a neurosurgical dilemma in this group of patients.Methods: A number of articles with a broad variation in methodology were reviewed and referenced during the production of this paper.Results: This paper is a narrative review. The results presented in all the referenced articles were considered.Conclusion: The process of developing new imaging techniques will give a greater understanding of the causes of the symptoms of DCM and in a wider context facilitate further surgical and medical strategies that are more cost effective and beneficial to patients. The advent of 7T MRI or further optimisation of safer 3T MRI sequences may soon provide this opportunity and the diagnostic gap in spinal cord imaging can begin to close.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wright
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Sean Martin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Erlick Ac Pereira
- Academic Neurosurgery Unit, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Yazhuo Kong
- Oxford Centre for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Brain, Oxford, UK.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Irene Tracey
- Oxford Centre for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Brain, Oxford, UK.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas Cadoux-Hudson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Schatlo B, Remonda L, Gruber P, Fandino J, Rohde V, Fathi AR, Berberat J. Cervical Spine Prospective Feasibility Study : Dynamic Flexion-Extension Diffusion-Tensor Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Clin Neuroradiol 2018; 29:523-532. [PMID: 29671001 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-018-0686-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in flexion-extension may serve as a diagnostic tool to improve the sensitivity for detection of myelopathy. In this study, the feasibility and reproducibility of dynamic DTI in the cervical spinal cord was assessed in healthy volunteers and patients. METHODS All subjects were examined in maximum neck flexion-extension in a 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. Range of motion, space available for the spinal cord, fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were measured and compared between the neck positions. RESULTS Volunteers showed no variation in ADC and FA. In patients, extension produced higher ADC in the diseased than in the control segments (p = 0.0045). The ADC of the affected segments was higher in extension than in the neutral position (p = 0.0030) or in flexion (p = 0.0002). The FA was significantly lower in extension in patients at both the control level C2/3 (p = 0.0154) and the affected segment (p = 0.0187). CONCLUSIONS Dynamic DTI of the cervical spine is feasible and ADC increased in the patient group in extension. This finding may open a previously unexplored avenue to attempt an earlier identification of myelopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bawarjan Schatlo
- Department of Neuroradiology, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Tellstraße 25, 5001, Aarau, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Medicine Göttingen, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Luca Remonda
- Department of Neuroradiology, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Tellstraße 25, 5001, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Gruber
- Department of Neurology, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Javier Fandino
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Veit Rohde
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medicine Göttingen, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ali-Reza Fathi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hirslanden Clinik, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Jatta Berberat
- Department of Neuroradiology, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Tellstraße 25, 5001, Aarau, Switzerland.
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Martin AR, De Leener B, Cohen-Adad J, Kalsi-Ryan S, Cadotte DW, Wilson JR, Tetreault L, Nouri A, Crawley A, Mikulis DJ, Ginsberg H, Massicotte EM, Fehlings MG. Monitoring for myelopathic progression with multiparametric quantitative MRI. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0195733. [PMID: 29664964 PMCID: PMC5903654 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0195733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with mild degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) are often managed non-operatively, and surgery is recommended if neurological progression occurs. However, detection of progression is often subjective. Quantitative MRI (qMRI) directly measures spinal cord (SC) tissue changes, detecting axonal injury, demyelination, and atrophy. This longitudinal study compared multiparametric qMRI with clinical measures of progression in non-operative DCM patients. Methods 26 DCM patients were followed. Clinical data included modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) and additional assessments. 3T qMRI data included cross sectional area, diffusion fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio, and T2*-weighted white/grey matter signal ratio, extracted from the compressed SC and above/below. Progression was defined as 1) patients’ subjective impression, 2) 2-point mJOA decrease, 3) ≥3 clinical measures worsening ≥5%, 4) increased compression on MRI, or 5) ≥1 of 10 qMRI measures or composite score worsening (p < 0.004, corrected). Results Follow-up (13.5 ± 4.9 months) included mJOA in all 26 patients, MRI in 25, and clinical/qMRI in 22. 42.3% reported subjective worsening, compared with mJOA (11.5%), MRI (20%), comprehensive assessments (54.6%), and qMRI (68.2%). Relative to subjective worsening, qMRI showed 100% sensitivity and 53.3% specificity compared with comprehensive assessments (75%, 60%), mJOA (27.3%, 100%), and MRI (18.2%, 81.3%). A decision-making algorithm incorporating qMRI identified progression and recommended surgery for 11 subjects (42.3%). Conclusions Quantitative MRI shows high sensitivity to detect myelopathic progression. Our results suggest that neuroplasticity and behavioural adaptation may mask progressive SC tissue injury. qMRI appears to be a useful method to confirm subtle myelopathic progression in individual patients, representing an advance toward clinical translation of qMRI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Aria Nouri
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Martin AR, De Leener B, Cohen-Adad J, Cadotte DW, Nouri A, Wilson JR, Tetreault L, Crawley AP, Mikulis DJ, Ginsberg H, Fehlings MG. Can microstructural MRI detect subclinical tissue injury in subjects with asymptomatic cervical spinal cord compression? A prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e019809. [PMID: 29654015 PMCID: PMC5905727 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-019809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) involves extrinsic spinal cord compression causing tissue injury and neurological dysfunction. Asymptomatic spinal cord compression (ASCC) is more common, but its significance is poorly defined. This study investigates if: (1) ASCC can be automatically diagnosed using spinal cord shape analysis; (2) multiparametric quantitative MRI can detect similar spinal cord tissue injury as previously observed in DCM. DESIGN Prospective observational longitudinal cohort study. SETTING Single centre, tertiary care and research institution. PARTICIPANTS 40 neurologically intact subjects (19 female, 21 male) divided into groups with and without ASCC. INTERVENTIONS None. OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical assessments: modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association score and physical examination. 3T MRI assessments: automated morphometric analysis compared with consensus ratings of spinal cord compression, and measures of tissue injury: cross-sectional area, diffusion fractional anisotropy, magnetisation transfer ratio and T2*-weighted imaging white to grey matter signal intensity ratio (T2*WI WM/GM) extracted from rostral (C1-3), caudal (C6-7) and maximally compressed levels. RESULTS ASCC was present in 20/40 subjects. Diagnosis with automated shape analysis showed area under the curve >97%. Five MRI metrics showed differences suggestive of tissue injury in ASCC compared with uncompressed subjects (p<0.05), while a composite of all 10 measures (average of z scores) showed highly significant differences (p=0.002). At follow-up (median 21 months), two ASCC subjects developed DCM. CONCLUSIONS ASCC appears to be common and can be accurately and objectively diagnosed with automated morphometric analysis. Quantitative MRI appears to detect subclinical tissue injury in ASCC prior to the onset of neurological symptoms and signs. These findings require further validation, but offer the intriguing possibility of presymptomatic diagnosis and treatment of DCM and other spinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan R Martin
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benjamin De Leener
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Julien Cohen-Adad
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - David W Cadotte
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Aria Nouri
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jefferson R Wilson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsay Tetreault
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Adrian P Crawley
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David J Mikulis
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Howard Ginsberg
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Cao X, Fang L, Cui CY, Gao S, Wang TW. DTI and pathological changes in a rabbit model of radiation injury to the spinal cord after 125I radioactive seed implantation. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:528-535. [PMID: 29623940 PMCID: PMC5900518 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.228758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive radiation exposure may lead to edema of the spinal cord and deterioration of the nervous system. Magnetic resonance imaging can be used to judge and assess the extent of edema and to evaluate pathological changes and thus may be used for the evaluation of spinal cord injuries caused by radiation therapy. Radioactive 125I seeds to irradiate 90% of the spinal cord tissue at doses of 40–100 Gy (D90) were implanted in rabbits at T10 to induce radiation injury, and we evaluated their safety for use in the spinal cord. Diffusion tensor imaging showed that with increased D90, the apparent diffusion coefficient and fractional anisotropy values were increased. Moreover, pathological damage of neurons and microvessels in the gray matter and white matter was aggravated. At 2 months after implantation, obvious pathological injury was visible in the spinal cords of each group. Magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging revealed the radiation injury to the spinal cord, and we quantified the degree of spinal cord injury through apparent diffusion coefficient and fractional anisotropy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Le Fang
- First Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Chuan-Yu Cui
- Department of MRI, Fourth Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Shi Gao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Tian-Wei Wang
- Department of Radiology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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41
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Rao A, Soliman H, Kaushal M, Motovylyak O, Vedantam A, Budde MD, Schmit B, Wang M, Kurpad SN. Diffusion Tensor Imaging in a Large Longitudinal Series of Patients With Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Correlated With Long-Term Functional Outcome. Neurosurgery 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/neuros/nyx558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Fractional anisotropy (FA) of the high cervical cord correlates with upper limb function in acute cervical cord injury. We investigated the correlation between preoperative FA at the level of maximal compression and functional recovery in a group of patients after decompressive surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).
OBJECTIVE
To determine the usefulness of FA as a biomarker for severity of CSM and as a prognostic biomarker for improvement after surgery.
METHODS
Patients received diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scans preoperatively. FA values of the whole cord cross-section at the level of maximal compression and upper cervical cord (C1-2) were calculated. Functional status was measured using the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) scale preoperatively and at follow-up up to 2 yr. Regression analysis between FA and mJOA was performed. DTI at C4-7 was obtained in controls.
RESULTS
Forty-four CSM patients enrolled prior to decompression were compared with 24 controls. FA at the level of maximal compression correlated positively with preoperative mJOA score. Preoperative FA correlated inversely with recovery throughout the postoperative period. This was statistically significant at 12 mo postoperation and nearly so at 6 and 24 mo. Patients with preoperative FA <0.55 had a statistically significant difference in outcome compared to FA >0.55.
CONCLUSION
In the largest longitudinal study of this kind, FA promises a valid biomarker for severity of CSM and postoperative improvement. FA is an objective measure of function and could provide a basis for prognosis. FA is particularly useful if preoperative values are less than 0.55.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash Rao
- University of Wisconsin School of Medi-cine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Hesham Soliman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Mayank Kaushal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Olesya Motovylyak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Aditya Vedantam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Matthew D Budde
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Brian Schmit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Marjorie Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Shekar N Kurpad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Abstract
UNLABELLED : Imaging is important in the evaluation of patients with degenerative disease and infectious processes. There are numerous conditions that can manifest as low back pain (LBP) or neck pain in a patient, and in many cases, the cause may be multifactorial. Clinical history and physical examination are key components in the evaluation of such patients; however, physical examination has variable sensitivity and specificity. Although studies have demonstrated that uncomplicated acute LBP and/or radiculopathy are self-limited conditions that do not warrant any imaging, neuroimaging can provide clear anatomic delineation of potential causes of the patient's clinical presentation. Various professional organizations have recommendations for imaging of LBP, which generally agree that an imaging study is not indicated for patients with uncomplicated LBP or radiculopathy without a red flag (eg, neurological deficit such as major weakness or numbness in lower extremities, bowel or bladder dysfunction, saddle anesthesia, fever, history of cancer, intravenous drug use, immunosuppression, trauma, or worsening symptoms). Different imaging modalities have a complementary role in the diagnosis of pathologies affecting the spine. In this review, we discuss the standard nomenclature for lumbar disk pathology and the utility of various clinical imaging techniques in the evaluation of LBP/neck pain for potential neurosurgical management. The imaging appearance of spinal infections and potential mimics also is reviewed. Finally, we discuss advanced neuroradiological techniques that offer greater microstructural and functional information. ABBREVIATIONS ADC, apparent diffusion coefficientDTI, diffusion tensor imagingDWI, diffusion-weighted imagingDOM, diskitis-osteomyelitisLBP, low back painMRM, magnetic resonance myelographySNA, spinal neuroarthropathySPECT, single-positron emission computed tomographySTIR, short tau inversion recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubdha M Shah
- Departments of *Radiology and Imaging Sciences and ‡Neurosurgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; §Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona
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Kadanka Z, Adamova B, Kerkovsky M, Kadanka Z, Dusek L, Jurova B, Vlckova E, Bednarik J. Predictors of symptomatic myelopathy in degenerative cervical spinal cord compression. Brain Behav 2017; 7:e00797. [PMID: 28948090 PMCID: PMC5607559 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To update a previously established list of predictors for neurological cervical cord dysfunction in nonmyelopathic degenerative cervical cord compression (NMDCCC). MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective observational follow-up study was performed in a cohort of 112 consecutive NMDCCC subjects (55 women and 57 men; median age 59 years, range 40-79 years), either asymptomatic (40 subjects) or presenting with cervical radiculopathy or cervical pain (72 subjects), who had completed a follow-up of at least 2 years (median duration 3 years). Development of clinical signs of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) as the main outcome was monitored and correlated with a large number of demographic, clinical, electrophysiological, and MRI parameters including diffusion tensor imaging characteristics (DTI) established at entry. RESULTS Clinical evidence of the first signs and symptoms of DCM were found in 15 patients (13.4%). Development of DCM was associated with several parameters, including the clinical (radiculopathy, prolonged gait and run-time), electrophysiological (SEP, MEP and EMG signs of cervical cord dysfunction), and MRI (anteroposterior diameter of the cervical cord and cervical canal, cross-sectional area, compression ratio, type of compression, T2 hyperintensity). DTI parameters showed no significant predictive power. Multivariate analysis showed that radiculopathy, cross-sectional area (CSA) ≤ 70.1 mm2, and compression ratio (CR) ≤ 0.4 were the only independent significant predictors for progression into symptomatic myelopathy. CONCLUSIONS In addition to previously described independent predictors of DCM development (radiculopathy and electrophysiological dysfunction of cervical cord), MRI parameters, namely CSA and CR, should also be considered as significant predictors for development of DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdenek Kadanka
- Department of Neurology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Blanka Adamova
- Department of Neurology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic.,Applied Neurosciences Research Group Central European Institute of Technology Masaryk University Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Milos Kerkovsky
- Department of Radiology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Kadanka
- Department of Neurology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Ladislav Dusek
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses Faculty of Medicine Masaryk University Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Jurova
- Department of Radiology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Eva Vlckova
- Department of Neurology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic.,Applied Neurosciences Research Group Central European Institute of Technology Masaryk University Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Josef Bednarik
- Department of Neurology University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic.,Applied Neurosciences Research Group Central European Institute of Technology Masaryk University Brno Brno Czech Republic
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44
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Liu H, MacMillan EL, Jutzeler CR, Ljungberg E, MacKay AL, Kolind SH, Mädler B, Li DKB, Dvorak MF, Curt A, Laule C, Kramer JLK. Assessing structure and function of myelin in cervical spondylotic myelopathy: Evidence of demyelination. Neurology 2017; 89:602-610. [PMID: 28701500 PMCID: PMC5562959 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000004197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the extent of demyelination in cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) using myelin water imaging (MWI) and electrophysiologic techniques. METHODS Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) and MWI were acquired in 14 patients with CSM and 18 age-matched healthy controls. MWI was performed on a 3.0T whole body magnetic resonance scanner. Myelin water fraction (MWF) was extracted for the dorsal columns and whole cord. SSEPs and MWF were also compared with conventional MRI outcomes, including T2 signal intensity, compression ratio, maximum spinal cord compression (MSCC), and maximum canal compromise (MCC). RESULTS Group analysis showed marked differences in T2 signal intensity, compression ratio, MSCC, and MCC between healthy controls and patients with CSM. There were no group differences in MWF and SSEP latencies. However, patients with CSM with pathologic SSEPs exhibited reduction in MWF (p < 0.05). MWF was also correlated with SSEP latencies. CONCLUSION Our findings provide evidence of decreased myelin content in the spinal cord associated with impaired spinal cord conduction in patients with CSM. While conventional MRI are of great value to define the extent of cord compression, they show a limited correlation with functional deficits (i.e., delayed SSEPs). MWI provides independent and complementary readouts to spinal cord compression, with a high specificity to detect impaired conduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanwen Liu
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Erin L MacMillan
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Catherine R Jutzeler
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Emil Ljungberg
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alex L MacKay
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Shannon H Kolind
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Burkhard Mädler
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - David K B Li
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcel F Dvorak
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Armin Curt
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Laule
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
| | - John L K Kramer
- From Physics and Astronomy (H.L., A.L.M., B.M.), ICORD (H.L., C.R.J., M.F.D., C.L., J.L.K.K.), Medicine (Neurology) (E.L.M., E.L., S.H.K., D.K.B.L.), Radiology (A.L.M., D.K.B.L., C.L.), Orthopaedics (M.F.D.), Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (C.L.), and School of Kinesiology (J.L.K.K.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Spinal Cord Injury Center (C.R.J., A.C.), University Hospital Balgrist, University of Zurich, Switzerland; and Philips Healthcare (B.M.), Hamburg, Germany
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Choe AS, Sadowsky CL, Smith SA, van Zijl PCM, Pekar JJ, Belegu V. Subject-specific regional measures of water diffusion are associated with impairment in chronic spinal cord injury. Neuroradiology 2017; 59:747-758. [PMID: 28597208 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-017-1860-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to identify non-invasive imaging parameters that can serve as biomarkers for the integrity of the spinal cord, which is paramount to neurological function. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) indices are sensitive to axonal and myelin damage, and have strong potential to serve as such biomarkers. However, averaging DTI indices over large regions of interest (ROIs), a common approach to analyzing the images of injured spinal cord, leads to loss of subject-specific information. We investigated if DTI-tractography-driven, subject-specific demarcation approach can yield measures that are more specific to impairment. METHODS In 18 individuals with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI), subject-specific demarcation of the injury region was performed using DTI tractography, which yielded three regions relative to injury (RRI; regions superior to, at, and below injury epicenter). DTI indices averaged over each RRI were correlated with measures of residual motor and sensory function, obtained using the International Standard of Neurological Classification for Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI). RESULTS Total ISNCSCI score (ISNCSCI-tot; sum of ISNCSCI motor and sensory scores) was significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with fractional anisotropy and axial and radial diffusivities. ISNCSCI-tot showed strongest correlation with indices measured from the region inferior to the injury epicenter (IRRI), the degree of which exceeded that of those measured from the entire cervical cord-suggesting contribution from Wallerian degeneration. CONCLUSION DTI tractography-driven, subject-specific injury demarcation approach provided measures that were more specific to impairment. Notably, DTI indices obtained from the IRRI region showed the highest specificity to impairment, demonstrating their strong potential as biomarkers for the SCI severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann S Choe
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA. .,F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Cristina L Sadowsky
- International Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Seth A Smith
- Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA.,Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA
| | - Peter C M van Zijl
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - James J Pekar
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Visar Belegu
- International Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Martin AR, De Leener B, Cohen-Adad J, Cadotte DW, Kalsi-Ryan S, Lange SF, Tetreault L, Nouri A, Crawley A, Mikulis DJ, Ginsberg H, Fehlings MG. Clinically Feasible Microstructural MRI to Quantify Cervical Spinal Cord Tissue Injury Using DTI, MT, and T2*-Weighted Imaging: Assessment of Normative Data and Reliability. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2017; 38:1257-1265. [PMID: 28428213 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE DTI, magnetization transfer, T2*-weighted imaging, and cross-sectional area can quantify aspects of spinal cord microstructure. However, clinical adoption remains elusive due to complex acquisitions, cumbersome analysis, limited reliability, and wide ranges of normal values. We propose a simple multiparametric protocol with automated analysis and report normative data, analysis of confounding variables, and reliability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty healthy subjects underwent T2WI, DTI, magnetization transfer, and T2*WI at 3T in <35 minutes using standard hardware and pulse sequences. Cross-sectional area, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio, and T2*WI WM/GM signal intensity ratio were calculated. Relationships between MR imaging metrics and age, sex, height, weight, cervical cord length, and rostrocaudal level were analyzed. Test-retest coefficient of variation measured reliability in 24 DTI, 17 magnetization transfer, and 16 T2*WI datasets. DTI with and without cardiac triggering was compared in 10 subjects. RESULTS T2*WI WM/GM showed lower intersubject coefficient of variation (3.5%) compared with magnetization transfer ratio (5.8%), fractional anisotropy (6.0%), and cross-sectional area (12.2%). Linear correction of cross-sectional area with cervical cord length, fractional anisotropy with age, and magnetization transfer ratio with age and height led to decreased coefficients of variation (4.8%, 5.4%, and 10.2%, respectively). Acceptable reliability was achieved for all metrics/levels (test-retest coefficient of variation < 5%), with T2*WI WM/GM comparing favorably with fractional anisotropy and magnetization transfer ratio. DTI with and without cardiac triggering showed no significant differences for fractional anisotropy and test-retest coefficient of variation. CONCLUSIONS Reliable multiparametric assessment of spinal cord microstructure is possible by using clinically suitable methods. These results establish normalization procedures and pave the way for clinical studies, with the potential for improving diagnostics, objectively monitoring disease progression, and predicting outcomes in spinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Martin
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - B De Leener
- Polytechnique Montreal (B.D.L., J.C.-A.), Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Cohen-Adad
- Polytechnique Montreal (B.D.L., J.C.-A.), Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Functional Neuroimaging Unit (J.C.-A.), Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - D W Cadotte
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - S Kalsi-Ryan
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - S F Lange
- University of Groningen (S.F.L.), Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - L Tetreault
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - A Nouri
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - A Crawley
- Department of Medical Imaging (A.C., D.J.M.), University of Toronto and the University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - D J Mikulis
- Department of Medical Imaging (A.C., D.J.M.), University of Toronto and the University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - H Ginsberg
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - M G Fehlings
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
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47
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Martin AR, De Leener B, Cohen-Adad J, Cadotte DW, Kalsi-Ryan S, Lange SF, Tetreault L, Nouri A, Crawley A, Mikulis DJ, Ginsberg H, Fehlings MG. A Novel MRI Biomarker of Spinal Cord White Matter Injury: T2*-Weighted White Matter to Gray Matter Signal Intensity Ratio. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2017; 38:1266-1273. [PMID: 28428212 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE T2*-weighted imaging provides sharp contrast between spinal cord GM and WM, allowing their segmentation and cross-sectional area measurement. Injured WM demonstrates T2*WI hyperintensity but requires normalization for quantitative use. We introduce T2*WI WM/GM signal-intensity ratio and compare it against cross-sectional area, the DTI metric fractional anisotropy, and magnetization transfer ratio in degenerative cervical myelopathy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty-eight patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy and 40 healthy subjects underwent 3T MR imaging, covering C1-C7. Metrics were automatically extracted at maximally compressed and uncompressed rostral/caudal levels. Normalized metrics were compared with t tests, area under the curve, and logistic regression. Relationships with clinical measures were analyzed by using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression. RESULTS The maximally compressed level cross-sectional area demonstrated superior differences (P = 1 × 10-13), diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve = 0.890), and univariate correlation with the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association score (0.66). T2*WI WM/GM showed strong differences (rostral: P = 8 × 10-7; maximally compressed level: P = 1 × 10-11; caudal: P = 1 × 10-4), correlations (modified Japanese Orthopedic Association score; rostral: -0.52; maximally compressed level: -0.59; caudal: -0.36), and diagnostic accuracy (rostral: 0.775; maximally compressed level: 0.860; caudal: 0.721), outperforming fractional anisotropy and magnetization transfer ratio in most comparisons and cross-sectional area at rostral/caudal levels. Rostral T2*WI WM/GM showed the strongest correlations with focal motor (-0.45) and sensory (-0.49) deficits and was the strongest independent predictor of the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association score (P = .01) and diagnosis (P = .02) in multivariate models (R2 = 0.59, P = 8 × 10-13; area under the curve = 0.954, respectively). CONCLUSIONS T2*WI WM/GM shows promise as a novel biomarker of WM injury. It detects damage in compressed and uncompressed regions and contributes substantially to multivariate models for diagnosis and correlation with impairment. Our multiparametric approach overcomes limitations of individual measures, having the potential to improve diagnostics, monitor progression, and predict outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Martin
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - B De Leener
- Polytechnique Montreal (B.D.L., J.C.-A.), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Cohen-Adad
- Polytechnique Montreal (B.D.L., J.C.-A.), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Functional Neuroimaging Unit (J.C.-A.), Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - D W Cadotte
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - S Kalsi-Ryan
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - S F Lange
- University of Groningen (S.F.L.), Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - L Tetreault
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - A Nouri
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - A Crawley
- Department of Medical Imaging (A.C., D.J.M.), University of Toronto and the University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - D J Mikulis
- Department of Medical Imaging (A.C., D.J.M.), University of Toronto and the University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - H Ginsberg
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
| | - M G Fehlings
- From the Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (A.R.M., D.W.C., S.K.-R., L.T., A.N., H.G., M.G.F.)
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48
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D'souza MM, Choudhary A, Poonia M, Kumar P, Khushu S. Diffusion tensor MR imaging in spinal cord injury. Injury 2017; 48:880-884. [PMID: 28242068 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2017.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ability of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to complement conventional MR imaging by diagnosing subtle injuries to the spinal cord is a subject of intense research. We attempted to study change in the DTI indices, namely fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) after traumatic cervical spinal cord injury and compared these with corresponding data from a control group of individuals with no injury. The correlation of these quantitative indices to the neurological profile of the patients was assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS 20 cases of acute cervical trauma and 30 age and sex matched healthy controls were enrolled. Scoring of extent of clinical severity was done based on the Frankel grading system. MRI was performed on a 3T system. Following the qualitative tractographic evaluation of white matter tracts, quantitative datametrics were calculated. RESULTS In patients, the Mean FA value at the level of injury (0.43+/-0.08) was less than in controls (0.62+/-0.06), which was statistically significant (p value <0.001). Further, the Mean MD value at the level of injury (1.30+/-0.24) in cases was higher than in controls (1.07+/-0.12, p value <0.001). Statistically significant positive correlation was found between clinical grading (Frankel grade) and FA values at the level of injury (r value=0.86). Negative correlation was found between clinical grade and Mean MD at the level of injury (r value=-0.38) which was however statistically not significant. CONCLUSION Quantitative DTI indices are a useful parameter for detection of spinal cord injury. FA value was significantly decreased while MD value was significantly increased at the level of injury in cases as compared to controls. Further, FA showed significant correlation with clinical grade. DTI could thus serve as a reliable objective imaging tool for assessment of white matter integrity and prognostication of functional outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pawan Kumar
- INMAS, Brig SK Majumdar Marg, Delhi, 110054, India
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49
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Nouri A, Martin AR, Mikulis D, Fehlings MG. Magnetic resonance imaging assessment of degenerative cervical myelopathy: a review of structural changes and measurement techniques. Neurosurg Focus 2017; 40:E5. [PMID: 27246488 DOI: 10.3171/2016.3.focus1667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Degenerative cervical myelopathy encompasses a spectrum of age-related structural changes of the cervical spine that result in static and dynamic injury to the spinal cord and collectively represent the most common cause of myelopathy in adults. Although cervical myelopathy is determined clinically, the diagnosis requires confirmation via imaging, and MRI is the preferred modality. Because of the heterogeneity of the condition and evolution of MRI technology, multiple techniques have been developed over the years in an attempt to quantify the degree of baseline severity and potential for neurological recovery. In this review, these techniques are categorized anatomically into those that focus on bone, ligaments, discs, and the spinal cord. In addition, measurements for the cervical spine canal size and sagittal alignment are also described briefly. These tools have resulted collectively in the identification of numerous useful parameters. However, the development of multiple techniques for assessing the same feature, such as cord compression, has also resulted in a number of challenges, including introducing ambiguity in terms of which methods to use and hindering effective comparisons of analysis in the literature. In addition, newer techniques that use advanced MRI are emerging and providing exciting new tools for assessing the spinal cord in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aria Nouri
- Divisions of 1 Neurosurgery and Spine Program and.,Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allan R Martin
- Divisions of 1 Neurosurgery and Spine Program and.,Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Mikulis
- Brain Imaging & Behaviour Systems, University of Toronto; and.,Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Divisions of 1 Neurosurgery and Spine Program and.,Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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50
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Diffusion Tensor Imaging Correlates with Short-Term Myelopathy Outcome in Patients with Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. World Neurosurg 2017; 97:489-494. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.03.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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