The application of magnetic resonance imaging in otolaryngology.

Magnetic resonance imaging is a new diagnostic technique that is being applied to study disease processes that involve the upper aerodigestive tract and cranial nerves of interest to otolaryngologists. As with all imaging techniques, an in-depth knowledge of the normal anatomy of a region is a prerequisite for the appreciation of disease states. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging requires a familiarity with the signal intensity produced by the different structures and the relationship of that signal to various radiofrequency pulse sequences that may be used. This report briefly reviews the techniques of magnetic resonance imaging and the normal anatomy of the cervical region and presents examples of pathologic processes that have been studied with this powerful diagnostic technique.