3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging diffusion-weighted imaging in evaluation of the reasons for lumbar disc degeneration

Ma Xiao-hui; Zhang Wei; Gao Yu; Zhao Jian; Li Shi-ling; Zhang Xu-jing; Zhao Zhen-jiang; Jiang Zhen

doi:10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2014.17.019

Abstract：BACKGROUND:Diffusion weighted imaging of MRI is sensitive for water molecule diffusion motion, can make us early understand the water content in annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus, so as to clarify its degeneration. <br> OBJECTIVE:To elevate the knowledge of disc degeneration and early diagnosis using diffusion-weighted imaging of MRI by prospectively studying lumbar disc diffusion-weighted imaging in 109 patients. <br> METHODS:Siemens Verio 3.0 T superconducting MRI was used. Conventional scan included sagittal T1WI and T2WI fat suppression sequence. Diffusion-weighted imaging used spin-echo echo planar imaging sequence sagittal scanning, taking b value of 800 s/mm2. Thickness, spacing, and field-of-view scan sequence was the same as fat suppression T2WI. According to Pfirrmann grading standard, the blind method was used in sagittal T2WI on 109 cases who met the inclusion criteria for classification of 545 lumbar intervertebral discs. The diffusion-weighted imaging data were uploaded to the station. Apparent diffusion coefficient images were measured, and the apparent diffusion coefficient values were obtained. Regions of interest of L1/2-L5/S1 discs were drawn, and the data were recorded. <br> RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Age was obviously correlated with intervertebral disc degeneration grading. The older age indicated more number of higher grades. Influencing factors for apparent diffusion coefficient:no significant difference in apparent diffusion coefficient was detected between males and females (P>0.05). L1-S1 intervertebral disc age was negatively associated with apparent diffusion coefficient values (P<0.05). Disc rating was negatively correlated with apparent diffusion coefficient values (P<0.05). Results indicated that diffusion-weighted imaging wil become an important technical mean for disc degeneration diagnosis, especial y early disc degeneration, noninvasive evaluation of treatment and prognosis by studying apparent diffusion coefficient values.