Diffusion Tensor Imaging to Assess the Functional Outcomes of Adults With Cervical Spinal Cord Injuries

Diffusion Tensor MRI to Assess Subacute Functional Outcomes in Patients With Acute Cervical Spinal Cord Injuries

Acute changes in axial diffusivity will correlate with the severity of injury in patients that suffer an acute spinal cord injury.

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters will correlate with severity of spinal cord injury in SCI patients as seen in rodent models. We will test whether the quantitative decrease in axial (λ║) diffusivity (a biomarker of axonal injury), will predict long-term functional outcomes for patients with a SCI.

Specific Aim: To examine patients after an acute SCI using DTI and to correlate the extent of acute decrease in λ║ with the presenting ASIA motor score and long-term functional outcome of the patient.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-65 years of age
• Cervical spinal cord injury
• physically and mentally willing to comply with imaging
• lives in immediate area with no plans to relocate

Exclusion Criteria:

• Associated moderate to severe head injury
• Active malignancy
• Previous spinal cord injury
• pregnancy
• inability to tolerate MRI scanning