MAGNETIC-RESONANCE-IMAGING OF THE LACRIMAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has excellent spatial and soft tissue resolution in the periocular and orbital region, especial ly when combined with surface coil techniques. Other methods, includin g computed tomography, dacryocystography, and dacryoscintigraphy provi de limited information in the area of the lacrimal drainage system. Ma gnetic resonance imaging was used in conjunction with other imaging mo dalities to compare the anatomic detail and clinically relevant inform ation obtained about various pathologic processes in the lacrimal drai nage area. Methods: Patients with a variety of lacrimal drainage disor ders underwent MRI with either head or surface coils. Contrast agents also were used in selected cases. Seven case reports are presented. Re sults: Magnetic resonance imaging provided detailed information about local anatomy, extent of pathology, and, in some cases, etiology of th e pathology. Conclusions: Magnetic resonance imaging with surface coil s provides detailed soft tissue information when compared with dacryoc ystography and computed tomography in the area of the lacrimal drainag e system. In selected cases of lacrimal drainage system pathology, MRI may provide data that affect patient management.