Tobias Maximilian Lindig1,2, Sarah C. Mang2, Sibylle E. Heide1,2, Vinod Kumar2, Thomas Ngele, Wolfgang Grodd2, Ludger Schls1, Uwe Klose2
1Department of Neurology and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany; 2Section of experimental MR of the CNS, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
Spinal diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is limited by severe motion artefacts and a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Current gradient coils, with low-eddy-current designs, open the field for the usage of monopolar Stejskal-Tanner sequences. With these schemes, smaller echo times and therefore a higher SNR can be achieved. Only a few studies of lumbar spinal DTI in humans already exist, with a coarse and mainly sagittal acquisition. The aim of this preliminary study was to optimize the sequence parameter for high resolution axial spinal DTI of the lumbar spinal cord and to show relevant clinical implications.