Temporomandibular joint: multislab, three-dimensional Fourier transformation MR imaging

Abstract

High-resolution three-dimensional Fourier transformation (3DFT) multislab acquisitions and a specially designed counter-rotating loop surface coil were used to increase the quality and clinical efficacy of imaging of the temporomandibular joint. The results were compared with those of 2D multisection imaging. Multislab 3DFT magnetic resonance imaging combines the advantages of volume imaging for viewing small structures and the clinical efficiency of 2DFT multisection acquisitions. A 3DFT multislab acquisition, coupled with a specially designed coil, yields two slabs of 16 sections each. The thin-section 3D imaging method facilitates the diagnosis of medially and laterally displaced disks and allows a bilateral examination.