Modern methods of investigation CSF pathology

Modern MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) programme support modification more and more often makes a radiologist to refuse the invasive techniques in favour of more safe methods like Magnetic Resonance Myelography, Magnetic Resonance Cisternography, combination of CT and MR-cisternography. To evaluate CSF flow and obtain quantitative characteristics of linear and regional CSF flow the method of phase-contrast MRI is used. Today these methods have become a routine practice and may be indicated for all patients with the corresponding CSF system pathology. The spectrum of diagnoses is rather large: all types of hydrocephalus, arachnoid cysts, midline tumours and tumors located in the CSF lumen, «empty» saddle, different types of CSF leakage, Arnold-Chiari malformations, anomalous development of the brain and brain ventricles, ventriculostoma (artificial and spontaneous), postoperative CSF collections convexital hygromas. Magnetic Resonance Myelography and Magnetic Resonance Cisternography can successfully replace the invasive methods of visualization of cerebral and spinal CSF spaces. Phase-contrast MRI has proved to be efficient in demonstrating open hydrocephalus and providing postoperative control in Arnold-Chiari malformations.