The comparative assessment of different echo time in 3D heavily T2-weighted fast spin-echo MR sialography

Objective: To chose the best echo time of 3D MR sialography on a Philips 1.5-T unit by comparative study of different echo time. Methods: Ten volunteers without salivary gland diseases were included in this study. SENSE-FLEX-M coil was used in every volunteer. Repitated time and other scan parameters were fixed and serial heavily T2-weighted fast spin echo sequences of different echo time and signal intensity of salivary ducts and background tissue were measured in 6 different regions of interest. Contrast to noise ratio (CNR) was measured and compared. Results: The salivary gland duets and its peripheral branches can be displayed on images of MR sialography in all volunteers. The CNR of parotid gland duct using TE 500 ms was statistically lower than those using other TEs (P<0.01). The CNR of parotid gland duct using TE 800 ms was statistically higher than those using other TEs(P<0.01). There was no significant difference between other TEs(P>0.05). The CNR of submandibular gland duet using TE 800 ms was statistically higher than those using other TEs(P<0.05). There was no significant difference between other TEs(P>0.05). Conclusion: It is the best choice for 3D heavily T2-weighted fast spin echo MR Sialography using TE 800 ms. (authors)