Evaluating the Effectiveness of the FRACTURE Sequence in Assessing Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament in the Cervical Spine

Motivation: There is no consensus on the use of anterior or posterior surgery for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). Goal(s): The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of the FRACTURE MRI sequence in comparison to CT in the detection of OPLL of the cervical spine. Approach: Seven radiological parameters were analyzed though the inter-observer and inter-modality agreement. Results: MRI with FRACTURE may be sufficient for the assessment of cervical spine OPLL, with good performance compared to CT in type of OPLL, distribution of OPLL, ossification thickness, canal-occupying ratio, K-line, and dural calcification. Impact: In the evaluation of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine, FRACTURE sequence might be a useful alternative to conventional CT scan.