Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has excellent spatial and soft tissue resolution in the periocular and orbital region, especially when combined with surface coil techniques. Other methods, including computed tomography, dacryocystography, and dacryoscintigraphy provide limited information in the area of the lacrimal drainage system. Magnetic resonance imaging was used in conjunction with other imaging modalities to compare the anatomic detail and clinically relevant information obtained about various pathologic processes in the lacrimal drainage area.
Methods: Patients with a variety of lacrimal drainage disorders underwent MRI with either head or surface coils. Contrast agents also were used in selected cases. Seven case reports are presented.
Results: Magnetic resonance imaging provided detailed information about local anatomy, extent of pathology, and, in some cases, etiology of the pathology.
Conclusions: Magnetic resonance imaging with surface coils provides detailed soft tissue information when compared with dacryocystography and computed tomography in the area of the lacrimal drainage system. In selected cases of lacrimal drainage system pathology, MRI may provide data that affect patient management.