New developments in magnetic resonance imaging of the nasopharynx and face

New developments such as three-dimensional imaging and MR angiography have improved MR imaging as compared with other radiologic modalities. In the differential diagnosis of tumors and inflammatory changes in the nasopharynx and face, MR imaging is preferable to CT in most cases. An advantage of gadolinium diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid-enhanced MR imaging in tumorous lesions is the capability to estimate the degree of vascularization. Three-dimensional imaging can show the topographic relationship of lesions to surrounding tissues precisely, allowing better preoperative treatment planning. MR angiography provides the radiologist and the surgeon with further information concerning vessel anatomy and pathology in the neck. MR angiography can be performed without contrast media using fast low-angle shot and flash image with steady precession techniques. Technical and therapeutic aspects of the management of facial and nasopharyngeal lesions as well as clinical findings and the MR imaging appearance of various lesions are discussed.