Spine Anatomy Imaging: An Update

Spinal MR imaging is excellent for identifying details of spinal anatomy, including intraspinal contents, neural foramina, joints, ligaments, intervertebral discs, and bone marrow. Cortical bony structures of the spine are better imaged using CT. Conventional and CT myelography is an alternative to MR imaging in those with contraindications to MR imaging or in evaluation of spinal cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Motion- and flow-related artifacts may occur during imaging and should not be mistaken for lesions. With advancements in MR imaging hardware and software, spinal MR imaging can expand its role in the delineation of normal and abnormal spinal anatomy.