HEAD AND NECK TUMORS, MRI VERSUS CT - A TECHNOLOGY-ASSESSMENT PILOT-STUDY

Thirty-three patients with head and neck tumors were evaluated with both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Although CT and MRI of the head and neck are well-established clinical methods, reports assessing the relative value of both modalities are not available. Technology assessment was based on the determination of how often and to what extent MRI versus CT provided valuable diagnostic information, and whether this information influenced patient management. The diagnostic values were classified in five groups, ranging from confusing to unique information. Therapeutic values were classified in five groups ranging from disadvantageous therapy, to a favorable change of treatment. All benign tumors found in 14 patients showed positive diagnostic and therapeutic results with MRI (100%). In 19 cases of malignancy a positive yield of 84% was found in the diagnostic and therapeutic results. Two of six squamous cell carcinoma and one of two rhadbomyosarcomas had a negative therapeutic value. As MRI played a positive role in therapeutic management in 91% of the examinations, it is the method of choice for therapy planning and follow-up of head and neck neoplasm. However, when skull base infiltration is suspected, CT is preferred. MRI provides valuable information to support diagnosis of the disease.