Magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal epidural space

Abstract

The spinal epidural space is located between the spinal dura mater and the vertebral column and extends from the foramen magnum to the sacral canal at the level of S2/S3. It is divided into anterior and posterior compartment. Due to its excellent soft tissue contrast magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard for imaging and diagnosis of pathological processes of the spinal epidural space which differ in etiology. Many processes origin in the spinal epidural space or extend from adjacent structures and epidural space is a frequent location for metastatic processes. Due to the possibility of spreadingof the pathological processes along spinal nerves and the spinal cord, they may present with symptoms of radiculopathy or myelopathy.