Multiparametric MRI characterization of level dependent differences in lumbar muscle size, quality, and microstructure.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic tool that can be used to noninvasively assess lumbar muscle size and fatty infiltration, important biomarkers of muscle health. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is an MRI technique that is sensitive to muscle microstructural features such as fiber size (an important biomarker of muscle health), which is typically only assessed using invasive biopsy techniques. The goal of this study was to establish normative values of level-dependent lumbar muscle size, fat signal fraction, and restricted diffusion assessed by MRI in a highly active population.

Methodological considerations in region of interest definitions for paraspinal muscles in axial MRIs of the lumbar spine.

Background: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is commonly used to assess the health of the lumbar spine and supporting structures. Studies have suggested that fatty infiltration of the posterior lumbar muscles is important in predicting responses to treatment for low back pain. However, methodological differences exist in defining the region of interest (ROI) of a muscle, which limits the ability to compare data between studies.

Contribution of Lumbar Spine Pathology and Age to Paraspinal Muscle Size and Fatty Infiltration.

Study Design: Retrospective chart analysis of 199 individuals aged 18 to 80 years scheduled for lumbar spine surgery.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to quantify changes in muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and fat signal fraction (FSF) with age in men and women with lumbar spine pathology and compare them to published normative data.

Summary Of Background Data: Pathological changes in lumbar paraspinal muscle are often confounded by age-related decline in muscle size (CSA) and quality (fatty infiltration).