Imaging Evaluation of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Current State of the Art and Future Directions

Abstract

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common neurologic condition that is often treated with surgery. Imaging plays a central role in the management of DCM, including diagnosis, preoperative planning, postoperative assessment, and prognostication. Radiographs, CT, and MRI offer unique and complementary assessments, and all have important uses in current clinical practice. Emerging microstructural and functional MRI techniques have the potential to have a major impact, potentially transforming practice by offering earlier and more accurate diagnosis, monitoring for deterioration, and prediction of outcomes. In the future, it can be expected that imaging will play an even greater role in DCM management.

Keywords: Degenerative cervical myelopathy; MRI; Magnetic resonance imaging; Spine.