Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques for the Evaluation of the Subaxial Cervical Spine

Abstract Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a critical tool for evaluating the normal and pathologic states of the spine and associated tissues. Advancements in MRI technology have greatly improved visualization of vertebral anatomy and identification of pathologic abnormalities, including spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, tumors, ligamentous abnormalities, and more. In addition to eliminating exposure to harmful radiation, MRI offers superior depiction of soft tissues relative to plain radiography and computed tomography. However, its potential to highlight clinically insignificant abnormalities requires correlation with patient history and clinical exam findings when determining diagnosis and guiding surgical decision-making. This chapter focuses on the efficacy of various MRI imaging sequences in evaluating vertebral anatomy and identifying various pathologic presentations within the cervical spine.