The Correlation of High Signal Intensity Spinal Cord Lesion in MRI T2-weighted Image and Neurological Symptom : The Experience of Operated 78 Cases of Cervical Spondylosis and Ossified Posterior Longitudinal Ligament

Abstract

The correlation of pre-operative high signal intensity spinal cord lesions in MRI T2-weighted images and neurological symptoms is reported concerning 78 operated cases of cervical spondylosis and ossified posterior longitudinal ligaments. The case numbers in the 0, 1 and 2 high signal intensity lesions group were 41, 28 and 9 respectively. Pre- and post-operative ADL were significantly worse in the group with high signal intensity lesions. Pre- and postoperative Japan orthopedic surgical association score and Hirabayashi's improvement ratio were worse when high signal intensity lesions (T2-weighted MRI) became much more or much dense especially in the higher cervical region. The number of compressed spinal cord levels were also much more in these groups. So early diagnosis and operation is recommended in the case of multiple spinal cord compression lesions with progressive neurological symptom.