3-DIMENSIONAL IMAGING OF THE PARAPHARYNGEAL SPACE

Recent advances in computer technology have allowed the introduction o f workstations into the hospital capable of creating or reconstructing three-dimensional (3-D) models from serial cross sections of an objec t. These can be obtained from either computed tomography or magnetic r esonance imaging scans. The reconstruction is stored in the computer's memory and may be interactively displayed and analyzed. Morphometric parameters may be used to characterize the object; it may be rotated o r cut; light sources may be moved to enhance surface detail; or select ive translucency can be created-in effect, the volumetric model of the reconstructed object can be explored in detail. Herein we examine the use of 3-D reconstructions of computed tomography and magnetic resona nce imaging scans of parapharyngeal space tumors of varying pathologic features, both common and rare. This anatomic region (in which comple x spatial relationships are probably best appreciated in 3-D) lends it self to this type of reconstruction. The 3-D reconstructions can be a useful tool for determining and following tumor volumes, and 3-D techn ology has immediate applications in diagnostic imaging, surgical plann ing, patient education, and medical research.