STIR Sequence (MRI)

Last edit by Alaric Steinmetz on

Synonyms: Short-Tau Inversion Recovery Sequence

The STIR sequence (Short-Tau Inversion Recovery) is an MRI sequence used to suppress fat signal.

Neurosurgical relevance

In neurosurgery, it is relevant, for example, in fractures of the spine, as the age of a fracture can be more accurately determined using the STIR sequence[^1].

Figure

MRI STIR sequence of the spine
Image of a spinal STIR sequence on MRI in a patient with an intraspinal abscess.
MRI STIR fracture
Sagittal MRI STIR sequence of a patient with a recent vertebral body fracture.

Contrast agent

The administration of gadolinium-based contrast agent leads to significant attenuation of the STIR signal in pathological areas, potentially obscuring important findings. Therefore, post-contrast STIR sequences are generally avoided when edema or inflammatory processes are to be detected.

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