Diffusion tensor imaging of the human optic nerve using a non-CPMG fast spin echo sequence.
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.
Chabert
Steren
S
SHFJ/CEA, #4 Place du Général Leclerc, 91401 Orsay, France.
Molko
Nicolas
N
Cointepas
Yann
Y
Le Roux
Patrick
P
Le Bihan
Denis
D
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