Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Guided Spine Interventions

• Published in: Magnetic resonance imaging clinics of North America Vol. 23; no. 4; pp. 523 - 532
• Main Authors: Himes, Nathan C., MD, Chansakul, Thanissara, MD, Lee, Thomas C., MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-11-2015
• Subjects: Cryotherapy; Epidural steroid injection; Humans; Low back pain; Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Interventional - methods; MR imaging–guided spine intervention; Radiology; Spinal Diseases - pathology; Spinal Diseases - therapy; Spinal nerve root block; Spine - pathology; Epidural steroid injection; Cryotherapy; MR imaging–guided spine intervention; Low back pain; Spinal nerve root block
• ISSN: 1064-9689; 1557-9786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2015.05.007

MR imaging–guided interventions for treatment of low back pain and for diagnosis and treatment of soft tissue and bony spinal lesions have been shown to be feasible, effective, and safe. Advantages of this technique include the absence of ionizing radiation, the high tissue contrast, and multiplanar imaging options. Recent advancements in MR imaging systems allow improved image qualities and real-time guidance. One exciting application is MR imaging–guided cryotherapy of spinal lesions, including treating such lesions as benign osteoid osteomas and malignant metastatic disease in patients who are not good surgical candidates. This particular technique shows promise for local tumor control and pain relief in appropriate patients.