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Dynamic correlation of diffusion tensor imaging and neurological function scores in beagles with spinal cord injury

Neural Regen Res, 2018 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.232485 · Published: May 1, 2018

Spinal Cord InjuryNeurologyMedical Imaging

Simple Explanation

This study explores the relationship between spinal cord structure and functional assessments after spinal cord injury in dogs using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). DTI is a technique that can quantify pathological damage in the spinal cord's white and gray matter. A spinal cord contusion-impactor was used to injure the T10 spinal cord of beagles, and changes were observed using DTI. The Texas Spinal Cord Injury Score (TSCIS) was used to assess neurological function at various time points after the injury. The study found a high correlation between the apparent diffusion-coefficient value and the Texas Spinal Cord Injury Score, suggesting that this value could accurately predict the recovery of neurological function after spinal cord injury.

Study Duration
12 weeks
Participants
7 healthy female beagles
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    Fractional anisotropy values decreased after spinal cord injury, while the apparent diffusion coefficient, mean diffusivity, and radial diffusivity initially decreased and then increased over time.
  • 2
    The apparent diffusion-coefficient value was highly associated with the Texas Spinal Cord Injury Score for the whole spinal cord, white matter, and gray matter.
  • 3
    The apparent diffusion-coefficient value for white matter had the highest and most significant correlation with neurological function, suggesting its potential for predicting recovery after spinal cord injury.

Research Summary

This study investigated the dynamic correlation between DTI parameters of different spinal cord structures and functional assessment after SCI in dogs. The study found that ADC value was highly correlated with TSCIS, and the correlation between TSCIS and white matter DTI parameters was higher than that with the whole spinal cord. The study concludes that ADC values and behavior score post-SCI could be used to predict the recovery of neurological function accurately after SCI.

Practical Implications

Diagnostic Tool

DTI can be used as a sensitive and noninvasive imaging technique to quantitatively explore different components of the spinal cord.

Prognostic Indicator

DTI can predict neurological function after SCI and provide an accurate diagnosis of SCI, helping in the detection and treatment of SCI.

Rehabilitation Guidance

The study results can be significant in the implementation of rehabilitation programs and in the diagnosis and prognosis of SCI.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size leading to a large sampling error.
  • 2
    Respiratory rate and heart rate of anesthetized animals may affect the acquisition of MRI signals.
  • 3
    The interpretation of the diffusion-parameter variation may be complex due to factors such as neuronal structures, astrocytes, cerebrospinal fluid fluctuations, and inflammatory factors.

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