Question

question 27 (mandatory) (1 point)
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a 50 - year - old male presents with a bilateral tingling sensation extending from his cervical spine into his bilateral hands. the sensation is exacerbated by flexion of the neck. radiographs of the cervical spine reveal a linear osseous density extending posterior to the c2 through c4 vertebral bodies within the spinal canal. what is the most appropriate follow - up imaging modality to assess the cervical spinal cord in this patient?
a) magnetic resonance imaging study
b) computed tomography
c) diagnostic ultrasound
d) bone scan

Explanation:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold - standard for evaluating the spinal cord. It provides excellent soft - tissue contrast, allowing for detailed visualization of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding structures. Computed tomography (CT) is better for evaluating bone structures but not as good for soft tissues like the spinal cord. Diagnostic ultrasound has limited use in the cervical spine for spinal cord evaluation due to poor penetration through bone. A bone scan is mainly used to detect bone metabolism changes (e.g., in cases of bone tumors or infections) and not for spinal cord assessment.

Answer:

A. magnetic resonance imaging study