 Postoperative changes are seen from previous anterior cervical fusion of C5 through C7. The exam was requested to be done at 3T, there is susceptibility artifact resulting from the indwelling instrumentation which limits evaluation of surrounding structures. In addition, there appears to be a prominent T2/STIR hyperintense collection along the right paramedian lateral aspect of the location extending from the mid C5 level down to the lower C7 level. This measures 2.6 cm transverse by 1.7 cm AP, by 3.7 cm CC. There is mild mass effect upon the right lobe of the thyroid gland.The cervical spine is in normal alignment, with a normal cervical lordosis. The vertebral body and disk heights are well-maintained. No worrisome focal marrow signal abnormality is appreciated. The spinal cord is of normal caliber and signal. There is no pathological enhancement. Previously seen susceptibility along the upper cervical cord surface circumferentially on the prior dedicated brain MRI images is again noted and appears similar. Precontrast T1-weighted images also suggest intrinsic T1 hyperintensity along the cord margins likely representing residual blood products, as suggested on the prior brain MRI images as well.There are mild scattered spondylotic changes without significant spinal canal or foraminal stenosis at any level. THORACIC SPINE
1. No abnormal flow voids or enhancement to suggest vascular malformation. No cord signal abnormality.2. Redemonstration of superficial siderosis along surface of upper cervical cord and likely within the dependent thecal sac.3. Mild lower lumbar spondylotic changes, with previous anterior cervical fusion C5-7. Prominent nonenhancing fluid collection along the right aspect of the previous cervical fusion, likely representing a seroma.