Magnetic resonance imaging of cyclodialysis clefts.

BACKGROUND

Our purpose was to determine whether cyclodialysis clefts can be imaged with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Surgical cyclodialysis clefts extending approximately 3 clock hours were created in four New Zealand white rabbits. Eyes were scanned with an ocular MRI coil. Images obtained after intravenous gadolinium, topical godalinium, and gadolinium injected into the cleft were compared to images obtained without contrast. Two human eyes were also scanned for cyclodialysis clefts with MRI.

RESULTS

Direct injection of gadolinium into the suprachoroid space yielded definitive localization and delineation of the cyclodialysis cleft. Cyclodialysis clefts could also be imaged following enhancement with topical or intravenous gadolinium. Without contrast medium, the clefts could not be clearly identified in rabbits. In a patient with hypotony and choroidal effusion following cataract surgery, a cyclodialysis cleft and enhancement of the suprachoroidal space were found with intravenous administration of gadolinium. MRI from a patient with a trabeculo-suprachoroidal shunt also demonstrated gadolinium enhancement of the suprachoroidal space.

CONCLUSION

Cyclodialysis clefts can be imaged using gadolinium-enhanced MRI in rabbits and humans.