Three dimensional MR gradient recalled echo imaging of the inner ear: Comparison of FID and echo imaging techniques

The detailed structures of the inner ear make this region a diagnostic challenge for radiologists. Thin section high resolution CT is the “gold standard” for studies of the fine bony detail of the inner ear. Although CT can delineate bony structures, fine soft tissue details surrounded by CSF/endolymph (such as nerves in the internal auditory canal) are not easily identified. Conventional MR spin-echo T 2-weighted images provide good image contrast for such structures, but the current commercially available minimum slice thickness of approximately 2–3 mm is too thick for the inner ear. Volume gradient recalled echo (GRE) MR imaging techniques can be used to achieve thin slices (