Optimal magnetic resonance imaging of the spine.

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is generally considered to be the best imaging modality for the spine because of its excellent tissue contrast and multiplanar imaging capability; however, good technique is vital in order to avoid nondiagnostic or even misleading images. The possibility of imaging in multiple planes and using many different pulse sequences means that judgment is required in order to gain maximum diagnostic information within a reasonable scanning time. Spinal MR imaging technique for small animals is reviewed with emphasis on technical aspects including patient positioning, selection of pulse sequences, and image planes.