Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Perfusion Parameters for the Identification of Spinal Metastatic Tumors with Rich Blood Supply

Abstract

To determine the reliability of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) perfusion parameters for the evaluation of blood supply to spinal metastatic tumors. A total of 36 patients with spinal metastasis who underwent dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance spinal perfusion imaging at Tianjin Hospital from December 2018 to December 2020 were reviewed. Subsequently, the patients underwent corresponding preoperative examination using digital subtraction angiography of the spine at the hospital and were divided into 2 groups accordingly. Differences in dynamic MRI perfusion parameters between the 2 groups were analyzed. There were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in the quantitative dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI perfusion parameters vascular permeability and plasma volume, as well as semi-quantitative peak enhancement and blood flow ratio parameters. Dynamic MRI perfusion may distinguish spinal metastatic lesions with rich blood supply from those with poor blood supply and may help clinicians identify patients that can benefit from invasive spinal angiography and preoperative embolization. This technique may also provide guidance on decision taking for surgery basing on dynamic MRI perfusion parameters.