High-Resolution Volumetric MR Ocular Imaging at 3T: A Pictorial Review With Ophthalmic and Sonographic Correlation

The globe and ocular adnexa are complex structures that require a multimodality approach for optimal evaluation. High-resolution imaging with MR imaging can offer key information regarding extrascleral disease, perineural tumor spread, and intracranial involvement beyond the scope of other imaging modalities. We incorporated volumetric imaging into our 3T ocular protocol, a task previously limited due to problems with tissue heating and lengthy scan duration. These images, obtained by using 3-dimensional fast spin-echo with variable-flip angle and radial 3-dimensional volume interpolated spoiled gradient echo, can be reconstructed into submillimeter sections in any plane from a single series acquisition. Here we reviewed our early experience with these techniques and focused on the clinical utility of volumetric ocular imaging at 3T across a wide spectrum of disorders.

Learning Objective: Recognize the technical considerations and clinical utility of 3-dimensional 3T MR imaging in ocular imaging across a wide spectrum of ocular pathology.