Objective:

To evaluate the roles of 3D sampling perfection with application optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolution (3D-SPACE) sequence and microsurface coil combined with 3D double-echo steady state with water excitation (3D-DESSwe) sequence in the protection of facial nerves in acoustic neuroma surgery.

Methods:

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

data of 33 acoustic neuroma patients confirmed by pathology were retrospectively analyzed. The imagings of conventional MRI scan

3D-SPACE sequence scan and 3D-DESSwe sequence combined with microsurface coil scan were compared with surgical findings and pathological results. The display of ipsilateral facial nerves in acoustic neuroma was investigated.

Results:

3D-SPACE could better display the cerebral cisterns of the peripheral nerves. 3D-DESSwe sequence combined with microsurface coil could better display the facial nerves in the internal auditory canal and the posterior cranial nerves.

Conclusion:

3D-SPACE sequence and 3D-DESSwe sequence combined with microsurface coil can improve the accuracy of preoperative evaluation of peripheral nerves of acoustic neuroma

and have important significance in the protection of facial nerves and preservation of facial nerve functions.