Three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging of the orbit in craniofacial malformations and trauma

Craniofacial malformations and trauma often lead to changes in orbital soft tissues, requiring surgical correction of both hard and soft tissues. Computed tomographic scans and 3-dimensional reconstructions are the optimal tools for evaluation of the bony structures. However, there is no equivalent method for the orbital soft tissues. The aim of this study was to establish a 3-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (3-D MRI) technique that allows a differentiated visualization of the different types of soft tissue in the orbit. A total of 8 patients with different pathologic conditions of the orbit was examined. Five of these patients underwent secondary correction after trauma, and 3 had craniofacial malformations. The 3-D reconstruction was performed in the volume-rendering technique after acquisition of 3-mm axial slices. It was shown that a differentiated visualization of the orbital soft tissues is possible. Although the thin bony structures have a weak signal and, therefore, the imaging is poor, reliable reconstruction of the globe was achieved by different radiologists because of its circular delimitation from the bone. This technique is an additional support in the planning of orbital surgery.