Abstract: Objective To analyze and explore the value of MRI in distinguishing fresh from old vertebral compression fractures. Methods The features of MRI in 43 cases with compression fractures of thoracic or lumbar vertebral bodies were analyzed. MRI sequences included T1WI, T2WI and STIR. Results Fifty-five vertebral bodies in total were found compression fractures in 43 cases. Forty-six vertebral bodies, which showed low signals or low signals mixing a few high signals on T1WI, high signals on T2WI and significantly high signals on STIR, were identified as fresh compression fractures. Nine vertebral bodies were identified as old compression fractures, because they showed the same signals as normal vertebral bodies on T1WI, T2WI and STIR. Conclusion MRI could accurately distinguish fresh and old vertebral compression fractures, so it is valuable for the distinguishment in forensic identification.

Key words: forensic medicine, magnetic resonance imaging, spinal fractures, diagnosis, differential