Eyelid anatomy revisited. Dynamic high-resolution magnetic resonance images of Whitnall's ligament and upper eyelid structures with the use of a surface coil.

Abstract

We used a new radiofrequency surface coil and complementary software in eyelid magnetic resonance imaging. This custom-designed coil allows visualization of the eyelid structures in submillimeter resolution, providing detailed delineation of such structures as the orbital septum, levator aponeurosis, Müller's muscle, and orbital septa. The effect of Whitnall's ligament on the levator aponeurosis can be observed as a "tenting" of the aponeurosis; the change in vector force is persistent in upgaze and downgaze. This technology will allow accurate dynamic studies of eyelid anatomy in patients with various anatomically based eyelid diseases, before and after surgery, making it possible to test in vivo longstanding theories of normal and pathologic eyelid physiology.