228

HIGH-DEFINITION IMAGING OF INNER EAR ANATOMY WITH HIGH-MR MAGNET STRENGTH

Ilka C Naumann1, Michael H Fritsch1, Kristine M Mosier2

1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA/2Department of Radiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA

Differentiation of inner ear structures is visibly improved through the use of new Magnetic Resonance (MR) techniques. Higher field strengths and new advanced sequences allow for improved discrimination when imaging the inner ear. Spatial resolution and flowrelated artifacts are frequent concerns when imaging the inner ear. We compare the use of the new 3D RESTORE protocols in a Siemens 3 Tesla MR scanner with sequences conventionally used by most Otologists: high resolution T2, FLAIR and CISS. Detailed images of patient cases and normal controls are presented. Higher definition of inner ear structures is illustrated with the 3D RESTORE sequence allowing for improved differentiation of the inner-ear fluid compartments.