Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Tomography in the Diagnosis of Intervertebral Disk Degeneration

Abstract

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW MRI) is an MRI method providing images of biological tissues weighted for the diffusion of water molecules at the cellular level. Characteristic changes are found in the extent of diffusion of water molecules at the early stages of intervertebral disk degeneration. Dehydration of cell populations in intervertebral disks associated with sharp restriction to diffusion of intra- and extracellular water is reflected as increases in signals on DW MRI scans. Thus, DW MRI is a leading method for the diagnosis of the initial signs of intervertebral disk degeneration, providing for identification of possible indications for neuro-surgical intervention.