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European Radiology

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01-09-2012 | Magnetic Resonance

Axial T2* mapping in intervertebral discs: a new technique for assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration

Authors: Sven Hoppe, Sebastian Quirbach, Tallal C. Mamisch, Fabian G. Krause, Stefan Werlen, Lorin M. Benneker

Published in: European Radiology | Issue 9/2012

Abstract

Objectives

To demonstrate the potential benefits of biochemical axial T2* mapping of intervertebral discs (IVDs) regarding the detection and grading of early stages of degenerative disc disease using 1.5-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a clinical setting.

Methods

Ninety-three patients suffering from lumbar spine problems were examined using standard MRI protocols including an axial T2* mapping protocol. All discs were classified morphologically and grouped as “healthy” or “abnormal”. Differences between groups were analysed regarding to the specific T2* pattern at different regions of interest (ROIs).

Results

Healthy intervertebral discs revealed a distinct cross-sectional T2* value profile: T2* values were significantly lower in the annulus fibrosus compared with the nucleus pulposus (P = 0.01). In abnormal IVDs, T2* values were significantly lower, especially towards the centre of the disc representing the expected decreased water content of the nucleus (P = 0.01). In herniated discs, ROIs within the nucleus pulposus and ROIs covering the annulus fibrosus showed decreased T2* values.

Conclusions

Axial T2* mapping is effective to detect early stages of degenerative disc disease. There is a potential benefit of axial T2* mapping as a diagnostic tool, allowing the quantitative assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration.

Key Points

• Axial T2* mapping effective in detecting early degenerative disc disease.

• Healthy and abnormal intervertebral discs revealed distinct cross-sectional T2* value profiles.

• T2* can be performed at 1.5 T in a clinical setting.

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Title: Axial T2* mapping in intervertebral discs: a new technique for assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Sven Hoppe
Sebastian Quirbach
Tallal C. Mamisch
Fabian G. Krause
Stefan Werlen
Lorin M. Benneker
Publication date: 01-09-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: European Radiology / Issue 9/2012
Print ISSN: 0938-7994
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1084
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-012-2448-8

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Axial T2* mapping in intervertebral discs: a new technique for assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Key Points

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Key Points

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