Diffusion tensor imaging of spinal microstructure in healthy adults: improved resolution with the readout segmentation of long variable echo-trains

Neural Regeneration Research, 2017 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.221166 · Published: December 1, 2017

Spinal Cord Injury Neuroimaging Medical Imaging

Simple Explanation

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is an advanced noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method that can qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the diffusion of water within a voxel in three-dimensional space. The readout segmentation of long variable echo-trains (RESOLVE) sequence is a novel scanning magnetic resonance (MR) technique, based on a readout segmented echo planar imaging (EPI) strategy. This study applied RESOLVE sequences with DTI techniques to improve image quality at the technical level and to clearly distinguish gray matter and white matter funiculi of the spinal cord in a large number of healthy individuals.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

45 healthy volunteers aged 20 to 63 years

Evidence Level

Level 3, Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
The RESOLVE sequence significantly increased the resolution of the diffusion images and improved the median signal-to-noise ratio of the middle (C4–6) and lower (C7–T1) cervical segments to the level of the upper cervical segment.
2
The values of fractional anisotropy and radial diffusivity were significantly higher in white matter than in gray matter.
3
The median SNR of the diffusion images was 7.3 across all levels.

Research Summary

This study investigated the use of the RESOLVE sequence in diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to improve the resolution of spinal cord microstructure imaging in healthy adults. The results showed that the RESOLVE sequence significantly increased the resolution of diffusion images and improved the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the cervical spinal cord. The study verified that the RESOLVE sequence could improve resolution of diffusion tensor imaging in clinical applications and provide accurate baseline data for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical spinal cord diseases.

Practical Implications

Improved Spinal Cord Imaging

The RESOLVE sequence enhances the resolution of DTI, allowing for better visualization of spinal cord microstructure.

Clinical Diagnostic Tool

This improved imaging technique can provide accurate baseline data for diagnosing and treating cervical spinal cord diseases.

Enhanced SNR

The RESOLVE sequence improves the signal-to-noise ratio, particularly in the middle and lower cervical segments.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited by its cross-sectional design.
2
The age range of participants might introduce variability.
3
The study only included healthy volunteers, limiting generalizability to patient populations.

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