T2 relaxation times of the thoracic intervertebral discs in children 8 to 10 years old.

Motivation: T2 relaxation time is a promising biomarker for the hydration and maturation state of the IVD in children, however, very little is known about it. Goal(s): The goal is to provide the baseline for T2 relaxation times in thoracic IVDs in children. Approach: T2 relaxometry performed in thoracic IVDs of 10 children. Results: In children: highest T2 values are in the core of Nucleus Pulposus (200-270 ms), T2 values in the Nucleus Pulposus - Annulus Fibrosus transition zone (110-130 ms) are more similar to those in adult NP tissue. This result is consistent with higher water content expected in pediatric vs. adult NP tissue. Impact: T2 values of healthy subjects can be used for the assessment of IVDs in children, opening new avenues to monitor developmental spine disease, research lower back pain as well as potential treatments.