Diagnosis of spine and spinal cord deformity in children with MRI

Abstract

Objective To discuss the magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) characteristics of spine and spinal cord deformity in children. Methods Thirty-three children with spine and spinal cord deformity underwent MRI examination from Jan.2010 to Dec.2012.The technique was to obtain spin echo(SE) sagittal T1WI and fast spin echo(FSE) T2WI as well as axial FSE T2WI.Coronal FSE T2WI was added when necessary. Results There were 17 cases with spine deformity, accounting for 51.5% of all patients, 12 cases with both spine and spinal cord deformity, accounting for 36.4% of all patients, 4 cases with sacral canal cyst, accounting for 12.1% of all patients.There were 4 cases of scoliosis, 22 cases of scoliosis accompanying vertebral or spinal cord deformity, 2 cases of atlas assimilation and basilar impression, 1 case of bifid spine of the sacrum. Conclusions There are a great variety of paediatric spine and spinal cord deformities, and they always coexist.MRI can supply accurate diagnosis and useful information for clinic. Key words: Magnetic resonance imaging; Spine; Spinal cord; Deformity; Child