Abstract:
Spinal dysraphism, characterized by incomplete closure of neural and bone spinal structures, manifests as
congenital fusion abnormalities along the dorsal midline, involving the skin, subcutaneous tissue, meninges,
vertebrae, and neural tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the preferred imaging modality for
assessing spinal dysraphism across all age groups, provides direct visualization of the spinal cord without
the need for contrast or ionizing radiation while also eliminating bone artifacts and allowing multiplanar
imaging. The objective of this study was to evaluate the range of spinal dysraphism lesions and assess the
significance of MRI in their evaluation.
Methodology
Thirty patients with suspected spinal dysraphism underwent evaluation at the Medical College Hospital and
Study Centre in Vijayapur, India. This cross-sectional observational study included patients diagnosed or
provisionally diagnosed with spinal dysraphism based on clinical and imaging profiles. Cases were identified
through preliminary findings on radiographs.
Results
The study encompassed individuals aged one month to 20 years, with the largest proportion of patients
(36.67%) falling within the 1-5-year age group. Spina bifida was the most prevalent spinal abnormality,
accounting for 70% of cases. In 12 patients (40%), the most prevalent location of involvement was the
lumbosacral spine.
Conclusion
MRI provides excellent tissue differentiation, particularly of lipomatous tissue, with reproducible and
comprehensive section planes and relative operator independence. Moreover, MRI is beneficial for children
with suspected spinal dysraphism as it can be performed without ionizing radiation, biological risks, or the
need for intrathecal contrast media.
