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Magnetization transfer contrast on gradient echo MR imaging of the temporomandibular joint
M Niitsu1, H Hirohata, H Yoshioka
1Department of Radiology, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
Abstract:
Thirty-nine temporomandibular joints (TMJ) from 20 patients with suspected internal derangements were imaged by a 1.5 T MR imager. The on-resonance binomial magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) pulse was applied to gradient echo images with a dual receiver coil (9 s/section). With the use of an opening device, a series of sequential images were obtained at increments of mouth opening and closing. The tissue signal intensities with (Ms) and without (Mo) MTC were measured and subjective image analysis was performed. Compared with the standard images, MTC technique provided selective signal suppression of disks. The average of Ms/Mo ratio of the disks (0.56) was lower than that of the retrodiskal pad (0.79) and of the effusion (0.89). With MTC technique, fluid conspicuity was superior to standard image. However, no significant superiority was found in disk definition subjectivity.
Insights
Magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) MRI suppresses temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disk signals, enhancing fluid conspicuity. This technique aids in diagnosing TMJ internal derangements by improving visualization of joint effusions.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangements are common conditions.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on advanced imaging techniques.
- Magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) is a novel MRI technique.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of MTC MRI in visualizing TMJ internal derangements.
- To assess MTC's ability to suppress disk signal intensity.
- To compare MTC imaging with standard MRI sequences.
Main Methods:
- 39 TMJs from 20 patients with suspected internal derangements were imaged using a 1.5 T MR imager.
- Gradient echo images with an on-resonance binomial MTC pulse were acquired.
- Sequential images were obtained during mouth opening and closing with an opening device.
Main Results:
- MTC technique selectively suppressed TMJ disk signal intensity (Ms/Mo ratio = 0.56).
- Fluid conspicuity was superior with MTC compared to standard imaging.
- No significant difference in subjective disk definition was observed.
Conclusions:
- MTC MRI effectively suppresses TMJ disk signal, enhancing fluid conspicuity.
- This technique shows promise for improved diagnosis of TMJ internal derangements.
- Further studies are needed to confirm subjective disk definition improvements.