Update on New Imaging Techniques for Trauma

Computed tomography (CT) and MRI are complementary imaging modalities for the evaluation of the traumatic spine. Osseous delineation is best assessed with CT, whereas MRI gives superb soft tissue description. Awareness of the strengths and pitfalls of each modality is critical in the accurate interpretation of images. Advances in MR imaging of the spine, particularly of the spinal cord, provide glimpses into to the pathobiological mechanism of spinal cord injury. Innovative techniques relay microstructural information about the integrity of the axons and myelin sheaths. In addition to clinical status, imaging features may be helpful in prognostication and in monitoring therapeutic interventions.