Magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord

This article aims to provide a brief overview of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spinal cord for the clinician. A basic review of MRI protocols for the region is followed by discussion of the most common imaging sequences. The appearance of normal spinal cord anatomy is reviewed with emphasis on structures prone to injury; congenital and developmental abnormalities; normal variants and pathology. These are correlated to annotated images. Imaging of cord pathology and trauma is then discussed with emphasis on the identification of key elements for the manual physician. Illustrative examples are given with discussion of specific common conditions perhaps after including disc lesions, trauma, tumour and demyelinating disorders.