RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Usefulness of MR Imaging for the Assessment of Nonophthalmic Paraclinoid Aneurysms
JF American Journal of Neuroradiology
JO Am. J. Neuroradiol.
FD American Society of Neuroradiology
SP 125
OP 129
DO 10.3174/ajnr.A0734
VO 29
IS 1
A1 L. Thines
A1 J.-Y. Gauvrit
A1 X. Leclerc
A1 D. Le Gars
A1 C. Delmaire
A1 J.-P. Pruvo
A1 J.-P. Lejeune
YR 2008
UL http://www.ajnr.org/content/29/1/125.abstract
AB BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The neuroradiologic location of asymptomatic paraclinoid aneurysms is decisive for patient management. In a preliminary study, we designed a paraclinoid MR protocol (PMP) including high-resolution T2-weighted images in 2 orthogonal planes to define the inferior limit of the distal dural ring plane that represents the borderline between the intradural and extradural internal carotid artery. In this clinical study, we compared this protocol with digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for the location of paraclinoid aneurysms.Materials and METHODS: During a 3-year period, we performed PMP and conventional angiograms in 14 consecutive patients with 17 asymptomatic paraclinoid aneurysms. Ophthalmic (superior) aneurysms were excluded. Two independent observers reviewed MR imaging data, and a third experienced neuroradiologist analyzed the conventional angiograms. MR imaging and conventional angiograms were independently analyzed, and interpretations obtained with each technique were compared.RESULTS: PMP allowed correct visualization of the aneurysms in all patients. No significant differences (P >.05) were found between the DSA and PMP for the measurement of the aneurysmal neck or sac. Interobserver agreement was good. MR imaging was discordant with conventional angiography regarding the position around the cavernous sinus of the aneurysmal neck and sac in 5 cases. PMP images were helpful for treatment decisions in 4 cases.CONCLUSION: PMP is an interesting tool that might be used in association with conventional angiography for the assessment of paraclinoid aneurysms.