MRI of Degenerative Disease of the Spine

This is the second edition of an acclaimed, richly illustrated and comprehensive case-based atlas focusing on MRI of degenerative changes in the osteoarticular structures of the spine. Spinal degenerative disease is highly prevalent in the general population and its incidence increases with age. At the same time, degenerative spinal conditions are one of the most common causes of pain. The book presents a comprehensive overview of the MR findings observed in degenerative disease of spinal joints, ligaments and paravertebral muscles, and offers guidance on selecting the appropriate imaging protocol, which is critical in detecting the potentially very subtle changes. The MR study protocols presented include T2-weighted sequences with fat saturation and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted sequences with fat saturation, since these sequences permit better visualization of inflammatory changes of both anterior and posterior elements of the spine. This richly illustratedsecond edition highlights the inflammatory component of the degenerative pathology of the spine, which in most cases is responsible for the painful symptomatology. It also discusses in detail the use of contrast medium in MRI of spinal degenerative disease. The case-based structure of the atlas allows easy but effective consultation by radiologists, neuroradiologists, rheumatologists, orthopedists and physiatrists, as well as students.