Whole-spine Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Study of Contortionists: Anatomy and Pathology

Object: Whole-spine magnetic resonance (MR) images were obtained using a cylindrical 3-T MR imaging system in 5 contortionists to assess the pathological changes possibly associated with the practice of contortion. Whole-spine dynamic MR images were obtained using a 1-T open MR imaging system in 2 of these contortionists with the purpose of defining the range of motion (ROM) achieved during extreme contortion. The range of spinal motion in this unique population was then quantified.

Methods: The study included 5 female contortionists 20-49 years of age. Imaging was performed using open 1-T and cylindrical 3-T high-field MR imaging systems. Data were viewed and analyzed with DICOM-compliant tools. Real-time, dynamic, and standard MR imaging allowed for quantification of the contortionists' ROM.

Results: There was a difference of 238 degrees between full spinal extension and full flexion. Three of the 5 contortionists had 4 anterosuperior limbus vertebrae at T-11 and the upper lumbar levels.

Conclusions: Whole-spine dynamic MR imaging is a valuable tool for the evaluation of the extreme ROM in contortionists, allowing for the quantification of extreme mobility. The limbus fractures present in 3 of the 5 contortionists is postulated to be due to avulsion on hyperextension. Future research may open the use of whole-spine dynamic MR imaging into such areas as pain management and traumatic spinal injuries.