MR imaging examination of the spinal axis in spinal cord compression secondary to metastatic disease: Eliminating the step of myelography

Thirty-five patients with known malignancy and symptoms of spinal cord compression were studied with MR imaging to evaluate the number of metastatic lesions and the degree of impingement on the neural elements. MR is demonstrated to be superior to myelography/CT in its ease of performance, safety, and in demonstrating the number and extent of metastatic lesions. In particular, MR eliminates the need for myelographic evaluation from both ''above and below'' the level of metastatic involvement. MR imaging should be the procedure of choice in these patients