[Spinal cord diffusion tensor tractography as a diagnostic tool in difficult cases of spinal cord intramedullary tumours].

Diffusion tensor-based spinal cord tractography is a technically complicated but rapidly evolving diagnostic method. The difficulties result from the volume of the spinal cord, the constant pulsing of the cerebrospinal fluid and respiratory movements. The method is being used more and more frequently to examine long spinal tracts in patients with intramedullary tumours. The method can be especially useful for ambiguous cases investigation. The presented case with coincidental intramedullary tumour and severe cervical spondylosis has been described by the authors to show their own experience with spinal cord tractography as a useful tool in determining an effective treatment method.