Magnetic resonance imaging of the tumor in the spine

Thirty four patients with spinal tumors were examined by conventional radiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI was useful in most cases, compared with CT, myelography, or CT myelography. MRI was not excellent in the detection of small tumors or calcification. The brighter signal intensity of lipoma was quite impressive. Cystic lesions were identified easily on MRI. Hemangioma of the vertebra has a high signal intensity. It is essential for the detection of lesion to choose adequate pulse sequences. (author)