[Preoperative diagnosis of neck tumors using magnetic resonance imaging]

The value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in preoperative diagnostics of neck tumours is described. The MR findings were compared with CT scans with respect to their significance for surgical treatment. The quality of the images of the neck was improved by the introduction of Helmholtz coils. The marked contrast between tumour and surrounding tissues provides detailed information about the extension, structure and extent of infiltration. However neither MR nor CT imaging was reliable in small laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinomas. The value of MR angiography cannot yet be determined.