1st April 2022

A 62-year-old man presents to A&E with sudden onset severe back pain and bilateral leg weakness

A 62-year-old man presents to A&E with sudden onset severe back pain and bilateral leg weakness. These symptoms came on around an hour ago, with no preceding trauma. On neurological examination, power is 0/5 in both lower limbs, and he has complete loss of pain and temperature sensation below the T10 level. A diagnosis of anterior spinal artery syndrome is suspected.

What is the definitive diagnostic investigation for this condition?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.