Diagnostic and therapeutic radiology of the spine: an overview

Apart from assessment of spinal trauma, the diagnostic yield from radiography of the spine is limited.CT and MRI are now the main modalities for diagnosis of spinal disease.In spinal trauma, thin section CT with multiplanar reformations allows comprehensive assessment of bony injury. MRI is required for assessment of associated soft tissue injury.Degenerative disc disease is common. MRI is the definitive first line investigation, demonstrating associated thecal and/or root compression.Heavy T2 weighted images may diminish detection of cord lesions.Vertebroplasty is a useful alternative to spinal fixation in patients with osteoporotic collapse.