Posterior cervical myelopathy

Posterior cervical myelopathy refers to a condition where there is compression of the spinal cord in the cervical spine, specifically in the posterior region of the spine. MRI is a useful imaging modality for evaluating cervical myelopathy, as it can show the extent and location of spinal cord compression.

On MRI, findings of posterior cervical myelopathy may include:

  1. Narrowing of the spinal canal: The spinal canal may appear narrower than normal due to degenerative changes, herniated discs, or bone spurs. This narrowing can lead to compression of the spinal cord.
  2. Signal changes in the spinal cord: Compression of the spinal cord can cause changes in the signal intensity of the spinal cord on MRI. These changes may be due to edema, myelomalacia, or gliosis .
  3. Disc herniation: Herniated discs can compress the spinal cord and lead to symptoms of myelopathy. On MRI, a herniated disc can be visualized as a bulging or protruding disc material beyond the normal confines of the disc space.
  4. Osteophytes or bone spurs: Osteophytes or bone spurs may form along the edges of vertebral bodies due to degenerative changes. These spurs can impinge on the spinal cord and cause compression.
  5. Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy: The ligamentum flavum is a ligament that runs along the back of the spinal canal. It can become thickened or hypertrophied due to degenerative changes, which can lead to compression of the spinal cord.