CT examination technique of the optic nerve

The computed tomographic (CT) appearance of the optic nerve was studied in various positions of gaze. In addition, the image quality of CT scans in different axial planes was analyzed. Based on these studies, an optimal examination technique for the clinical CT evaluation of the optic nerve is suggested. A negative angulation of -20 degrees to the orbitomeatal base line with the eye in upgaze position appears to be optimal. With this technique, the optic nerves are stretched and course parallel to the plane of section. They are therefore included in a minimum number of sections.