Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2020; 24(S 01): S1-S8
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1709554
Scientific Presentations and Posters
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

All-Purpose MRI of the Spine

Frank Schellhammer
1   Krankenhaus der Augustinerinnen, Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Cologne, Germany
,
York Rommelpacher
2   Krankenhaus der Augustinerinnen, Sektion für Wirbelsäulenchirurgie, Cologne, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
25 March 2020 (online)

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Introduction Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine is one of the most frequent examinations, and operative treatment often requires further imaging. We present a protocol that can be used for diagnostic as well as for preoperative conditions.

Material and Methods A total of 28 consecutive patients with acute lower back pain underwent MRI of the spine (Siemens, Aera 1.5 T). A T1-weighted sagittal 3D sequence was established for preoperative planning and intraoperative instrumentation. Additionally, fat-suppressed coronal T1-weighted, sagittal T2 Dixon, and axial T2-weighted sequences were used. Ten patients underwent spinal fusion using 3D navigation (Brainlab Spine and Trauma) and 3D instrumentation (Siemens, Cios Spin).

Results Diagnostic quality was excellent in all examinations. The mean duration of our protocol was 16:49 minutes (range: 15:15–17:26 minutes). Correlation between preoperative 3D planning and intraoperative deep vein thrombosis was possible in each operative case.

Conclusion To prevent further imaging before surgery, we developed a diagnostic MRI protocol that enables preoperative planning as well as intraoperative correlation without the need for additional time.