[The diagnostic value of magnetic resonance sialography for chronic obstructive parotitis].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance sialography (MRS) for chronic obstructive parotitis (COP). METHODS: 18 patients with COP underwent both conventional sialography and MRI sialography. A new magnetic resonance technique was applied. In addition to the usually performed T1 and T2 cross-sectional sequence, a heavy T2-weighted sequence (TR=4000 msec,TE=250 msec)was performed that allowed depiction of the fluid-filled parotid duct system. The MRI sialographic findings were compared with that of conventional sialography. The overall accuracy of diagnosis and ductal stenosis were assessed. RESULTS: The main duct of the parotid gland as well as primary branching ducts could be reliably depicted. Compared with the conventional sialography, the diagnostic accuracy of MRS was 94.4%(17/18) and stenosis diagnosis reached 100%(17/17). CONCLUSIONS: Initial experience indicates that magnetic resonance sialography can be applied successfully to investigate the duct system of the parotid gland. It is completely noninvasive and a promising alternative to radiographic sialography.