Can we distinguish between benign versus malignant compression fractures of the spine by magnetic resonance imaging?
STUDY DESIGN: The authors investigate the usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging in differentiating benign versus malignant compression fractures by reviewing patients and a fracture model in a canine model. OBJECTIVES: To determine the sensitivity and specificity of magnetic resonance imaging in differentiating benign versus malignant compression fractures of the spine and to obtain distinguishing features in magnetic resonance imaging. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: The differentiation between benign and abnormal compression fractures of the thoracolumbar spine has important implications regarding patient treatment and prognosis. Plain radiographs, bone scans, and computed tomography are not accurate imaging modalities for this purpose. METHODS: Magnetic resonance imaging scans of 22 patients with confirmed lesions of the thoracolumbar spine were studied. There were 11 malignant and 11 benign lesions. Two experienced neuroradiologists blindly reviewed the magnetic resonance imaging sc
