Vascular Anatomy of the Spinal Cord

The concept for this discourse on the radiological anatomy of both superficial and deep spinal cord vasculature stemmed from daily neuroradiological practices. This was also the reason for partitioning the monograph into a postmortem anatomical and a clinical section. The genuine significance of a clear understanding of radio-anatomic principles was underscored during numerous clinical meetings with neurologists, neurosurgeons, and orthopedists, where a gap in knowledge regarding medullary syndromes of suspected vascular origin became apparent. Furthermore, even among neuroradiologists, there remains considerable ambiguity in interpreting myelograms and angiographies in these situations. An investigation into the spinal cord’s angioarchitecture is all the more warranted and essential, considering the abundance of descriptions concerning cerebrovascular anatomy and pathology. The clinical dilemma presented by patients experiencing partial or complete transverse spinal injuries has intensified due to innovative diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Myelography utilizing water-soluble contrast agents, X-ray computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and spinal angiography now enables and necessitates both earlier and more precise topographical and pathogenetic classifications of ailments affecting the spinal cord and its adjacent structures. Advancements in microneurosurgery and interventional neuroradiology have rendered even intramedullary lesions increasingly accessible and treatable. Consequently, this monograph primarily targets individuals engaged in invasive therapeutic techniques and those well-versed in the interpretation of radio-anatomic findings. An extensive account of medullary vascular syndromes would exceed the limits of this treatise.