Preoperative Evaluation of Neurovascular Compression in Patients with Trigeminal Neuralgia by Use of Three-dimensional Reconstruction from Two Types of High-resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging

OBJECTIVE To assess the value of three-dimensional (3-D) images reconstructed from 3-D constructive interference in steady state (3-D-CISS) and 3-D fast inflow with steady-state precession (3-D-FISP) images for the visualization of neurovascular compression in patients with trigeminal neuralgia. METHODS Twenty-four consecutive patients with trigeminal neuralgia underwent preoperative 3-D-FISP and 3-D-CISS imaging. 3-D reconstruction of nerves and vessels was performed with the use of a volume-rendering method. We compared the 3-D reconstructed images with intraoperative findings. RESULTS 3-D-CISS and 3-D-FISP images scanned from the same position clearly delineated the trigeminal nerve and vessels. 3-D reconstructed images showed the spatial relationship between the trigeminal nerve and causative vessels. The responsible arteries were identified from the 3-D reconstructed images, which closely simulated the microscopic operative view. CONCLUSION 3-D reconstructions from two types of high-resolution magnetic resonance images (3-D-CISS and 3-D-FISP) are very useful for creating preoperative simulations and in deciding whether to perform surgery in patients with trigeminal neuralgia.