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European Spine Journal
Published in: European Spine Journal 4/2008

01-12-2008 | Review

Quantitative MRI as a diagnostic tool of intervertebral disc matrix composition and integrity

Authors: Fackson Mwale, James C. Iatridis, John Antoniou

Published in: European Spine Journal | Special Issue 4/2008

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Abstract

Degenerative disc disease has been implicated as a major component of spine pathology. The current major clinical procedures for treating disc degeneration have been disappointing, because of altered spinal mechanics leading to subsequent degeneration at adjacent disc levels. Disc pathology treatment is shifting toward prevention and treatment of underlying etiologic processes at the level of the disc matrix composition and integrity and the biomechanics of the disc. The ability to perform such treatment relies on one’s ability to accurately and objectively assess the state of the matrix and the effectiveness of treatment by a non-invasive technique. In this review, we will summarize our advances in efforts to develop an objective, accurate, non-invasive diagnostic tool (quantitative MRI) in the detection and quantification of matrix composition and integrity and of biomechanical changes in early intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Metadata
Title
Quantitative MRI as a diagnostic tool of intervertebral disc matrix composition and integrity
Authors
Fackson Mwale
James C. Iatridis
John Antoniou
Publication date
01-12-2008
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
European Spine Journal / Issue Special Issue 4/2008
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-008-0744-4

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