[Magnetic resonance tomography of the oropharynx and oral cavity with Gd-DTPA. An optimized study technic and its diagnostic value].

In the evaluation of space-occupying lesions of the oropharynx it is necessary to perform modern imaging methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging additionally to clinical and endoscopical methods. 126 patients were examined using T1-weighted (TR = 500 ms, TE = 25 ms) and T2-weighted (TR = 3000 ms, TE = 25/90 ms) spin-echo-sequences before and after i.v. application of Gd-DTPA. Superficially growing lesions of stage T1 could not be delineated from isointense mucosa. The preoperative staging of T2-T4 lesions can be markedly improved by using T1- and T2-weighted sequences in combination with Gd-DTPA. MR imaging with Gd-DTPA is recommended as the primary diagnostic tool for diagnosing lesions in the region of the oropharynx.