Assessment of cervical spondylosis by dynamic MRI and its advantages over routine MRI

Abstract

Background and objectives. Cervical spondylosis is an age-related condition that influences the various components of the spine. Attributed to its exceptional tissue contrast, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic modality for assessing cervical spondylosis. Dynamic MRI examination adds diagnostic information obtained from imaging the patient in flexion and extension. Our study had the purpose of evaluating the flexion-extension MRI’s diagnostic utility. Materials and methods. 40 patients with cervical spondylosis joined our prospective cross-sectional study. The patients were examined by flexion and extension sagittal T2 weighted images (Dynamic MRI) in addition to static MRI cervical spine protocol. The study was carried out in our department and lasted for two years. Results. Total central spinal stenosis (TCSS) was considerably higher in extension in comparison to neutral MRI (Mean ± SD =6.1± 1.45 compared to 4.7 ± 1.29) (p<0.001) showing that extension raises the severity of the cervical spinal stenosis. TCSS was significantly decreased in flexion compared to neutral MRI (Mean ± SD = 3.2 ± 0.79 compared to 4.7 ± 1.29) (p<0.001) assuming flexion reduces the radiological severity of stenosis. Conclusion. Dynamic MRI is a valuable imaging modality. It provides useful information by highlighting more central spinal stenosis, particularly in the extension position, which enhances the treatment regimens for patients with cervical spondylosis.