High isotropic resolution magnetic resonance imaging of the mandibular canal at 1.5 T: a comparison of gradient and spin echo sequences.

Objectives: The precision of localizing the mandibular canal prior to surgical intervention depends on the achievable resolution, whereas identification of the nerve depends on the image contrast. In our study, we developed new protocols based on gradient and spin echo sequences. The results from both sequences were quantitatively compared for their agreement to identify the most suitable approach.