Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of spine using surface coil techniques displays bony, cartilaginous, and soft tissue structures, but most importantly, the spinal cord itself. The direct, in vivo visualization of the spinal cord is a feature unique to MR and provides images of exquisite anatomic and pathologic detail. Our preliminary studies indicate that MR is useful in characterizing the spinal cord injury and has the potential in predicting neurologic recovery.
The aim of this proposal will be to 1) detect and characterize acute spinal cord trauma using magnetic resonance imaging, 2) evaluate the predictive value of the MR image characteristics of the acute cord injury with regard to neurologic recovery and 3) develop an animal model in which the MR signal patterns observed in humans can be consistently reproducible. Since the cord lesions in humans cannot be biopsied, the animal model will be used to obtain direct histopathologic-MRI correlation. These studies are expected to provide the basis for creating individualized pathology-specific treatment programs and reasonable outcome predictions for patients with spinal cord injuries.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS025699-03
Application #
3411071
Study Section
Diagnostic Radiology Study Section (RNM)
Project Start
1989-04-01
Project End
1994-03-31
Budget Start
1991-04-01
Budget End
1994-03-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Texas Health Science Center Houston
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
City
Houston
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
77225
Worden, M K; Bykhovskaia, M; Hackett, J T (1997) Facilitation at the lobster neuromuscular junction: a stimulus-dependent mobilization model. J Neurophysiol 78:417-28
Narayana, P A; Kudrle, W A; Liu, S J et al. (1991) Magnetic resonance imaging of hyperbaric oxygen treated rats with spinal cord injury: preliminary studies. Magn Reson Imaging 9:423-8