The Adult Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormalities Syndrome: Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Clinical Findings in Adults With Spinal Cord Injuries Having Normal Radiographs and Computed Tomography Studies

Abstract

This retrospective chart review provides information on adult patients with cervical spinal cord injuries whose radiographs and computed tomography studies were normal. It furthers reinforces the pathologic background of SCIWORA in an adult population, when evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging. Particularly for patients with cervical spondylosis, special attention should be paid with regard to vascular compromise by predisposing factors such as smoking or vascular disease, since they probably contribute in the development of SCIWORA.