Diffusion-Weighted Imaging, Diffusion-Tensor Imaging, and Fiber Tractography of the Spinal Cord

Majda M. Thurnher, Meng Law

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleResearchpeer-review

99 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In the brain, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is an established and reliable method for the characterization of neurologic lesions. Although the diagnostic value of DWI in the early detection of ischemia has not diminished with time, many new clinical applications of DWI have also emerged. Diffusion-tensor imaging and fiber tractography have more recently been developed and optimized, allowing quantification of the magnitude and direction of diffusion along three principal eigenvectors. Diffusion-tensor imaging and fiber tractography are proving to be useful in clinical neuroradiology practice, with application to several categories of disease, and to be a powerful research tool. This article describes some of the applications of DWI and diffusion-tensor imaging in the evaluation of the diseases of the spinal cord.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)225-244
Number of pages20
JournalMagnetic Resonance Imaging Clinics of North America
Volume17
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 May 2009
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Diffusion tensor
  • Fiber tractography
  • Spinal cord

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