Application of three-dimensional fast gradient echo sequence in observation of craniocervical junctional ligament.

Abstract

To explore the value of three-dimensional fast gradient echo sequence (3D-GRE) in observation of the craniocervical junctional ligament. A total of 21 healthy volunteers underwent 3D-GRE imaging. The imaging data was imported into the post-processing workstation. The structures of the ligaments in the craniocervical junctional area were observed and evaluated by multiplanar reconstruction technique. The features of ligaments in the craniocervical junction were shown clearly for all the 21 cases of volunteers. The scan time was 267-294 s. After the treatment with the three-dimensional reconstruction technique, the signal characteristics and the running structure of the transverse ligament, the alar ligament, the serrated ligament and the lamina could be effectively displayed. The 3D-GRE can evaluate the three-dimensional data of craniocervical junctional ligament in a short period of time. Post-processing reconstruction technique can clearly evaluate the structure characteristics of each ligament, which can lay a foundation for further application in craniocerebral trauma patients.