Background: Acute trauma is a common cause of Spinal cord injury (SCI) that results in life-threatening and/or severely disabling injuries. Initial assessment of traumatic SCI is usually done through X-ray radiography and computed tomography (CT). Although spinal integrity could be sufficiently evaluated using CT scans to direct surgical interventions, the superior capabilities of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Objectives: In this paper, we will review the available literature discussing the role of MRI in emergency spinal injuries. Methodology: We conducted the literature search within the PubMed database using the keywords: “cord contusion” and “cord edema” and “cord hematoma” and “cord hemorrhage” and “cord transection” and “magnetic resonance imaging” and “neurological deficit” and “spinal cord injury” and “spinal trauma” and “trauma” with dates from 1990 to 2020.
Review: There are multiple indications of spinal MRI in acute spinal injury. One major indication is that initial findings obtained from X-ray and/ or CT scans suggest injury to the ligaments. MRI is superior to conventional CT scans in the evaluation of TDH as it provides exceptional contrast between the different anatomical structures. Conclusion: In conclusion, MRI has transformed the way physicians approach acute traumatic SCIs by supplying them with an effective instrument that has allowed them to rapidly obtain high-quality data and act on it.
