Diffusion tensor tractography in the head-and-neck region using a clinical 3-T MR scanner

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Medical Physics
• Radiology

Background:

• Diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) has not been previously reported for head and neck neural fibers at 3T.
• Accurate visualization of neural pathways is crucial for surgical planning in the head and neck region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of DTT for visualizing head and neck neural fibers at 3T.
• To explore the application of DTT in patients with head and neck mass lesions.

Main Methods:

• 3T MRI scans were acquired from 5 healthy volunteers and 5 patients with head and neck mass lesions.
• Diffusion tensor imaging with a b value of 800 s/mm(2) and continuous tracking method were used.
• Tractography results were compared with operative findings in patients by two observers.

Main Results:

• DTT successfully depicted neural fibers, including presumed inferior alveolar nerves, in all patients.
• Optimal parameters for fiber density detection were identified (max angle 40°, min length 10 mm).
• Tractography results showed good agreement with operative findings in 4 out of 5 patients, with good interobserver agreement.

Conclusions:

• Diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) is a feasible technique for visualizing neural fibers in the head and neck region using a 3T MRI scanner.
• The study demonstrates good concordance between DTT and surgical outcomes in patients with head and neck masses, suggesting its clinical utility.