Comparative Study between 3D Balanced Fast Field Echo Sequence and 3D Driven Equilibrium Sequence in the Assessment of the Inner Ear Structure and Internal Auditory Canal Nerves

Abstract

Background: MR cisternography using three dimensional (3D) heavily T2-weighted imaging techniques is considered the main imaging modality for identification and assessment of inner ear structures anatomy and pathology as well as for identification of the posterior fossa cranial nerves, and there are two techniques that are usually used which are fast spinecho including Driven equilibrium (DRIVE) and fast gradientecho techniques including Balanced fast field echo (bFFE). Aim of Study:To compare the image quality of 3D DRIVE and 3D bFFE sequences in the assessment of the inner ear structures and internal auditory canal cranial nerves.Material and Methods : 15 patients underwent MR imaging of the temporal bone using both 3D bFFE and 3D DRIVE sequences with a comparison between the two sequences as regards the clarity of cranial nerves and inner ear structures.Results: The 3D bFFE sequence was statistically significantly better than 3D DRIVE for demonstration of the cochlear, and vestibular nerves, and it was slightly better for visualizing the facial nerve as well as the cochlear inner structure. The 3D DRIVE showed a statically insignificant supremacy over 3D bFFE for visualization of the three semicircular canals and vestibule.Conclusion: The 3D bFFE shows slightly better imaging quality over 3D DRIVE with the advantage of less imaging time.