Title: Three-dimensional MR visualization of the intracisternal course of the cranial nerves V-VIII by virtual cisternoscopy
Abstract:Purpose: A post-processing protocol for 3D visualization of the cranial nerves V–VIII along their intracisternal course is presented.
Material and Methods: Six healthy volunteers underwent MR i...Purpose: A post-processing protocol for 3D visualization of the cranial nerves V–VIII along their intracisternal course is presented.
Material and Methods: Six healthy volunteers underwent MR imaging (1.5 T) to obtain high-resolution heavily T2-weighted data sets (3DFT CISS) with isotropic voxels (0.5 mm3). The data sets were post-processed by using volume rendering software in order to visualize the intracisternal courses of the cranial nerves V–VIII as well as their root entry zones. The data acquisition and post-processing protocol was then applied in 14 patients with a suspected neural compression syndrome according to the clinical findings as well as cross-sectional images and evaluated with respect to image quality and diagnostic value by two neuroradiologists, using a five-point scale.
Results: Virtual cisternoscopy allowed a comprehensive intracisternal 3D visualization of the affected cranial nerves in 12/14 patients. The mean post-processing time amounted to 13.1/5.6/13.7 min for the cranial nerves V/VI/VII and VIII. The mean score for image quality was 4.2, that for diagnostic value 4.1. 2D and/or 3D reference images were indispensable for appreciating the spatial information provided by virtual cisternoscopy.
Conclusion: The data acquisition and post-processing protocol presented here allows comprehensive and standardized intracisternal 3D visualization of the cranial nerves V–VIII in a routine setting as a complementary imaging procedure.Read More
Publication Year: 2002
Publication Date: 2002-05-01
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 9
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