Isotropic proton-density-weighted high-resolution MRI for volume measurement of reconstructed orbital fractures--a comparison with multislice CT.

Objective: The cause of enophthalmos as a late complication after orbital reconstruction is poorly investigated. Multislice CT (MSCT) is usually employed for its assessment, in spite of limitations regarding soft tissue depiction/imaging, as well as the implication of radiation and production of artifacts. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been shown to be a valuable alternative.

Secondary post-traumatic enophthalmos: high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging compared with multislice computed tomography in postoperative orbital volume measurement.

Purpose: Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) was the modality of choice for orbital volume measurement. This first prospective study compares MSCT with high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with micro (MRImc) and headcoil (MRIhc) in volumetric evaluation of the postsurgical enophthalmic orbit.

Patients And Methods: Morphologic and dimensional changes of the orbit, eyebulb, and fat content were investigated 3 to 4 months after reconstruction of complex orbital fractures in 36 patients.