MR imaging of arthritides of the cervical spine.

Indications for MR imaging have broadened with the development of multiplanar capability, superb soft tissue contrast, and high sensitivity for detecting pathologic alterations. These developments are especially valuable in the analysis of the spine, where multiple anatomic structures reside, each with varying physical properties. MR imaging is unsurpassed in demonstrating early structural and proliferative changes that occur in inflammatory and related arthritides, and in evaluating complications that can cause significant morbidity, and even death. The role of MR imaging in the evaluation of cervical spinal arthritis continues to evolve, as its role in identifying patients for surgical intervention becomes clearer.