[CT and MR imaging of the facial nerve]

Modern imaging techniques used for depicting the facial nerve include multi-slice spiral computed tomography (CT) and high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). CT is the gold standard for imaging the osseous structures of the temporal bone. As a result of its excellent soft tissue contrast, MRI enables identification of the facial nerve itself. Due to high spatial resolution and the possibility to generate multiplanar reconstructions, both CT and MRI facilitate an exact evaluation of anatomical structures in all three spatial planes. The present article provides an overview of relevant anatomical structures, a thorough knowledge of which is the basic prerequisite to understanding pathologies and interpreting radiological findings correctly. Furthermore, basic techniques and strategies for imaging the facial nerve using CT and MRI are explained in general. The articles concludes with specific requirements for the radiological diagnosis of dysplasia, neoplasms and trauma, as well as vascular and inflammatory diseases.