The usefulness of MRI in the diagnosis and treatment of intra and paraseller regions

The subjects of this study were 29 cases with tumors in intra and parasellar regions. We studied the usefulness of MRI in the diagnosis and treatment of these tumors. Based on our results, we reached the following conclusions. 1) Since bone artifacts do not intrude, the diagnosis of microadenoma was facilitated. 2) Comprehension of the anatomical positions of surrounding tissues, including the tumor and the optic nerve, the optic chiasma and large blood vessels, are cleary identified. 3) Diagnosis of intratumor hemorrhaging, especially repeated hemorrhaging, was facilitated. Neuroophthalmologically, contributes to the elucidation of the tumor's pathological effects on the development of optical signs and symptoms. Also, a clear depiction of the position of the tumor and its relation to the peripheral tissues provides useful information to the surgeon before an operation. 4) The weak point of MRI is the poor demonstration of calcification and bone disintegration. 5) Topics still to be considered in regard to MRI is the difficulty of differential diagnosis of tumors before an operation. (author)