Implementation of Axial Diffusion Tensor Imaging in the Lumbar Spinal Cord at 3T

Spinal diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is limited by severe motion artefacts and a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Current gradient coils, with low-eddy-current designs, open the field for the usage of monopolar Stejskal-Tanner sequences. With these schemes, smaller echo times and therefore a higher SNR can be achieved. Only a few studies of lumbar spinal DTI in humans already exist, with a coarse and mainly sagittal acquisition. The aim of this preliminary study was to optimize the sequence parameter for high resolution axial spinal DTI of the lumbar spinal cord and to show relevant clinical implications