THE VALUE OF MRI IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF TUMORS OF THE TEMPORAL BONE, NASOPHARYNX, NOSE, PARANASAL SINUSES AND THE CRANIAL PART OF THE PARAPHARYNGEAL SPACE

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is now an established technique which is becoming increasingly important in the diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up of ENT tumours. It offers numerous advantages over other diagnostic procedures, especially computed tomography (CT). The soft tissue contrast enabled by MRI is superior to that obtained with CT scanning. MRI also enables multiplane imaging, which facilitates evaluation of the complex anatomy of the head. Apart from spin echo sequences, the most commonly employed technique, gradient echo sequences are becoming ever more important. This technique is flow-sensitive, reduces the investigation time and permits 3D imaging.