PubMed · 1993 · 21 citations · 0 references
MedicineOrthopedic SurgeryRadiologyDiagnostic ImagingDiagnostic RadiologyRheumatologyImaging AssessmentMagnetic Resonance ImagingMusculoskeletal ImagingRheumatoid ArthritisSpinal Cord ImagingSpine ImagingAssociated Neurological SymptomsCervical Spine AnatomyFunctional Magnetic Resonance ImagingFunctional MriFunctional Spine ImagingRheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostics
OBJECTIVE: To determine the value of functional (flexion) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) suspected of having cervical (C)-spine involvement. METHODS: Four patients with RA suspected of having C spine involvement, with neurological symptoms and/or signs, and who had normal MRI in neutral position, underwent functional MRI. RESULTS: In all 4 patients functional MRI provided additional information. Cord compression (3 patients) and angulation of the cord (1 patient) were evident only in this view. CONCLUSION: Functional MRI provided additional information in these patients and may be indicated in patients with RA suspected of having C spine involvement who have a normal MRI study in a neutral position.