Comparison of FIESTA and gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted sequences in magnetic resonance of acoustic schwannoma

Abstract

AbstractAcoustic schwannomas (AS) are a treatable cause of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Currently, the gold standard magnetic resonance (MR) examination for exclusion of acoustic schwannoma is gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted images of the cerebropontine angles (CPA). The FIESTA (fast imaging employing steady‐state acquisition) sequence is a true‐FISP (free induction steady‐state precession) sequence that provides high‐resolution fluid‐bright images of the CPAs and basal cisterns. The T1‐weighted sequence adds cost and time to the examination, and possibility of contrast medium reaction exists. This study of 50 patients compared the gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted images and FIESTA images. The hypothesis was that the FIESTA sequence could repIACe the gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted images for the diagnosis of AS. The results showed that in 98% of cases, this was possible. The conclusion was that when the FIESTA sequence does not demonstrate AS, this sequence may be employed in isolation. However, gadolinium‐enhanced images should be employed when pathology is seen and to follow‐up post‐surgical patients.