Functional cervical MRI within the scope of whiplash injuries: presentation of a new motion device for the cervical spine

Purpose Frequently following a whiplash injury of the cervical spine, patients suffer from persistent pain symptoms. The MRI will in some of these cases show changes consistent with disk pathology or spinal stenosis, although in most instances the imaging studies will offer no adequate explanation for the described symptoms. The goal of our research was to develop and test a new MRI compatible device that will allow functional imaging of the cervical spine. Methods A total of 30 patients with whiplash injuries were evaluated during the first 6 weeks following trauma with the functional MRI. The examination was carried out with a T2-weighted turbo spin-echo sequence utilizing a new apparatus consisting of an inflatable air bag contained in a Plexiglas housing. Thanks to a valve placed outside of the examination room, it was possible to individually regulate the amount of air used to fill the pillow, thereby obtaining a full range of motion between flexion and extension. Results In 25 cases no pathology was found during this examination. Two patients presented with scarring of the alar ligaments, indicative of a traumatic lesion. In two other instances the images in reclination revealed a bulging disk, while in one case a widening of the disk space was found as a sign for a rupture of the anterior longitudinal ligament. Conclusion Our study was able to demonstrate the applicability of the new functional testing device, which permits a standardized, continuous and dynamic evaluation of the cervical spine in a closed MRI.