title: Diffusion tensor imaging of the human optic nerve using a non-CPMG fast spin echo sequence.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To investigate the diffusion tensor properties of the human optic nerve in vivo using a non-Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) fast spin echo (FSE) sequence.
  
  
  METHODS
  This non-CPMG FSE sequence, which is based on a quadratic phase modulation of the refocusing pulses, allows diffusion measures to be acquired with full signal and without artifacts from geometric distortions due to magnetic field inhomogeneities, which are among the main problems encountered in the orbital area.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Good-quality images were obtained at a resolution of 0.94 x 0.94 x 3 mm. The mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA) were respectively 1.1 +/- 0.2 x 10(-3) mm(2)/second and 0.49 +/- 0.06, reflecting the optic nerve anisotropy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This non-CPMG-FSE sequence provides reliable diffusion-weighted images of the human optic nerve. This approach could potentially improve the diagnosis and management of optic nerve diseases or compression, such as optic neuritis, orbit tumors, and muscle hypertrophy.
authors: SHFJ/CEA, #4 Place du Général Leclerc, 91401 Orsay, France.
authors: Steren
authors: S
authors: Chabert
authors: Nicolas
authors: N
authors: Molko
authors: Yann
authors: Y
authors: Cointepas
authors: Patrick
authors: P
authors: Le Roux
authors: Denis
authors: D
authors: Le Bihan
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D016477:Artifacts; D015331:Cohort Studies; D017352:Echo-Planar Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009900:Optic Nerve / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000473:pathology*; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D012016:Reference Values; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity