In vivo 3.0‐tesla magnetic resonance T1ρ and T2 relaxation mapping in subjects with intervertebral disc degeneration and clinical symptoms

Abstract

The purpose of this study is (1) to determine the correlation between T _1ρ and T ₂ and degenerative grade in intervertebral discs using in vivo 3.0‐T MRI, and (2) to determine the association between T _1ρ and T ₂ and clinical findings as quantified by the SF‐36 Questionnaire and Oswestry Disability Index. Sixteen subjects participated in this study, and each completed SF‐36 and Oswestry Disability Index questionnaires. MRI T _1ρ and T ₂ mapping was performed to determine T _1ρ (77 discs) and T ₂ (44 discs) in the nucleus of the intervertebral disc, and T₂‐weighted images were acquired for Pfirrmann grading of disc degeneration. Pfirrmann grade was correlated with both T _1ρ (r = −0.84; P < 0.01) and T ₂ (r = −0.61; P < 0.01). Mixed‐effects models demonstrate that only T _1ρ was associated with clinical questionnaires (R ²_SF‐36 = 0.55, R ²_O.D.I. = 0.56; P < 0.05). Although the averaged values of T _1ρ and T ₂ were significantly correlated, they presented differences in spatial distribution and dynamic range, thus suggesting different sensitivities to tissue composition. This study suggests that T _1ρ may be sensitive to early degenerative changes (corroborating previous studies) and clinical symptoms in intervertebral disc degeneration. Magn Reson Med 63:1193–1200, 2010.