Can Velopharyngeal MRI be Used in Individuals with Orthodontic Devices?

To evaluate the influence of common pediatric orthodontic appliances on velopharyngeal (VP) MRI and to compare MR image sequences to determine if sequence parameters impact the visibility of key VP structures commonly assessed in clinical VP MRI.

Participants undergoing orthodontic treatment completed a VP MRI study. Level of distortion caused by orthodontic devices on 8 anatomical sites of interest and using variable MRI sequences was evaluated.

Single institution.

Nineteen participants undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Level of distortion caused by metal artifacts and MR sequence used.

The results of this study demonstrate that appliances such as hyrax palatal expanders and braces with stainless steel brackets are acceptable for a VP MRI, while class II corrector springs are not recommended. The HASTE MRI sequence with 2D imaging techniques should be utilized if the child has orthodontic devices, while FSE and 3D imaging techniques are not recommended. The presence of wire spring coils and molar bands are likely to not to interfere with the MRI evaluation.

Findings from this study suggest that the presence of orthodontic appliances does not hinder visualization of all velopharyngeal structures during an MRI. Therefore, careful consideration must be made prior to disqualifying or recommending patients for VP MRI.