Closing the diagnostic gap: A narrative review of recent advances in functional MRI diagnostics in spinal cord injury.

Abstract

Introduction: Conventional MRI (T1 and T2-weighted sequences) is the standard for diagnosing spinal cord injuries but often lacks specificity, showing limited correlation with microstructural changes and function. This creates a diagnostic gap, especially in patients with mild or ambiguous symptoms, delaying early intervention.

Research question: Can advanced MRI techniques-such as quantitative MRI (qMRI), functional MRI (fMRI), Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS), and Transmagnetic Stimulation (TMS)-address the limitations of conventional MRI by providing enhanced diagnostic metrics and biomarkers of spinal cord integrity?

Material and methods: This study reviews advanced MRI modalities and their potential to provide quantifiable insights into spinal cord microstructure and function. It also explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in analyzing complex datasets to support more comprehensive diagnostics.

Results: Advanced MRI techniques show promise in improving diagnostic accuracy and enabling individualized prognostic assessments. Parameters specific to each modality could serve as biomarkers for injury extent and neurological recovery, supporting their potential as clinical endpoints in therapy trials.

Discussion and conclusion: These advanced imaging techniques, combined with AI for data integration, offer a transformative potential for personalized diagnostics in spinal cord injury. Yet, significant technical and validation challenges remain, requiring large, multicenter studies to confirm their effectiveness and enable clinical application. Successfully addressing these challenges could close the diagnostic gap, optimize patient outcomes, and redefine spinal cord injury management.