Dynamic computed tomography myelography for the investigation of cervical degenerative disease

Neurol Med Chir (Tokyo). 2006 Apr;46(4):210-5; discussion 215-6. doi: 10.2176/nmc.46.210.

Abstract

Dynamic computed tomography (CT) myelography was conducted in 15 patients with cervical degenerative disease to assess the lesions responsible for their symptoms. CT myelography was performed using a multi-detector row helical CT system in dynamic positions (flexion or extension or both) in addition to the neutral position. Fine sagittal reconstructed images could be obtained in addition to axial images. This method provided static information including cervical vertebral body deformities, and good contrast images of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and cerebrospinal fluid space. In addition, laterality of the offending lesion and changes exaggerated by cervical motion were clearly shown in both axial and sagittal images. Ten of 15 patients demonstrated dynamic changes including dynamic canal stenosis or spinal cord impingement. The operative strategies were changed based on dynamic CT myelography findings in three of the 15 patients. Dynamic CT myelography can provide the axial and sagittal images required for flexion-extension studies, and in combination with conventional imaging modalities, provides valuable information for determining treatment strategies and objectives.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cervical Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cervical Vertebrae / surgery
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted*
  • Intervertebral Disc Displacement / diagnostic imaging
  • Intervertebral Disc Displacement / surgery
  • Laminectomy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myelography*
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Spinal Cord Compression / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Cord Compression / surgery
  • Spinal Fusion
  • Spinal Osteophytosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Spinal Osteophytosis / surgery
  • Spinal Stenosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Stenosis / surgery
  • Tomography, Spiral Computed*