Comparison of MRI-based Assessment of Spinal Cord Injuries and their Clinical Profile with American Spinal Injury Association Grading: A Retrospective Observational Study

Introduction: Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs) remain a significant public health concern, necessitating precise diagnostic tools and comprehensive management strategies. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the gold standard imaging technique for patients with SCI and spinal trauma. Aim: To evaluate the role of MRI in spinal trauma and compared imaging findings with the clinical profile according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale. Materials and Methods: This was a single-centre, retrospective, observational study conducted at the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, India, from May 2022 to May 2024. MRI scans and medical data of patients with suspected acute SCIs were evaluated. Patients aged ≥18 years who underwent MRI within two days of trauma were included in the study. MRI findings and the clinical profile according to the ASIA impairment scale were documented. Descriptive statistics were used, and data are reported as mean and percentage. Results: A total of 67 patients were included in the study, predominantly male 52 (77.6%), with a mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age of 41.1±20.5 years. Cervical spine involvement was the most common, observed in 27 (40.3%) patients, and 22 (32.8%) patients had severe spinal cord compression. At admission, 28 (41.8%) patients had complete impairment (ASIA Grade A), while at discharge, 24 (35.8%) patients remained in Grade A. Patients with Grade A and C impairment at admission showed better prognosis and progressed to Grade D by discharge. A total of 18 (26.9%) patients had Grade D impairment at admission, which increased to 24 (35.8%) patients at discharge. Improvement in sensory scores and neurological outcomes was observed in 13 (17.9%) and 14 (20.9%) patients, respectively. Conclusion: The MRI was beneficial in the evaluation of trauma-induced spinal injuries and provided vital diagnostic information. The MRI findings showed good correlation with the clinical profile of patients.