Visualization of Cerebrospinal Fluid Dynamics in Normal and Spinal Pathophysiological Conditions Using Time Spatial Spin Labeling Inversion Pulse-MRI

Abstract

  Prior to the recent development of the time-spatial spin labeling inversion pulse (Time-SLIP) technique, an innovating imaging method, no method allowed direct tracing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics under physiological and pathophysiological conditions, without disturbing the environment of the central nervous system. Time-SLIP allows the direct visualization of CSF motion using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), permitting CSF dynamics to be depicted during a certain time frame. CSF dynamics, which are visualized using Time-SLIP, have been found to differ markedly from those describing classical CSF circulation theory in medical textbooks. Thus, Time-SLIP has allowed research on CSF dynamics to advance to the next stage, and provides a more accurate understanding of normal spinal CSF physiology and its alterations in pathophysiological states. The observation of CSF dynamics using Time-SLIP should improve diagnostic accuracy, permitting the identification of new etiological factors in a variety of diseases, and promoting the development of new therapeutic approaches.