2019
Magnetic resonance imaging of the larynx in the pediatric population: A systematic review
Publication
Publication
Pediatric Pulmonology , Volume 54 - Issue 4 p. 478- 486
Abstract
Background:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques to image the larynx have
evolved rapidly into a promising and safe imaging modality, without need for sedation
or ionizing radiation. MRI is therefore of great interest to image pediatric laryngeal
diseases. Our aim was to review MRI developments relevant for the pediatric larynx
and to discuss future imaging options.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted to identify all morphological and
diagnostic studies in which MRI was used to image the pediatric larynx, laryngeal
disease, or vocal cords.
Results:
Fourteen articles were included: three studies on anatomical imaging of the
larynx, two studies on Diffusion Weighted Imaging, four studies on vocal cord imaging
and five studies on the effect of anaesthesiology on the pediatric larynx. MRI has been
used for pediatric laryngeal imaging since 1991. MRI provides excellent soft tissue
contrast and good visualization of vascular diseases such as haemangiomas. However,
visualization of cartilaginous structures, with varying ossification during childhood, and
tissue differentiation remain challenging. The latter has been partly overcome with
diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), differentiating between benign and malignant
masses with excellent sensitivity (94-94.4%) and specificity (91.2-100%). Vocal cord
imaging evolved from static images focused on vocal tract growth to dynamic images
able to detect abnormal vocal cord movement.
Conclusion:
MRI is promising to evaluate the pediatric larynx, but studies using MRI as
diagnostic imaging modality are scarce. New static and dynamic MR imaging
techniques could be implemented in the pediatric population. Further research on
imaging of pediatric laryngeal diseases should be conducted.
Additional Metadata | |
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doi.org/10.1002/ppul.24250, hdl.handle.net/1765/116808 | |
Pediatric Pulmonology | |
Organisation | Department of Pediatric Surgery |
Elders, B., Hermelijn, S.M., Tiddens, H., Pullens, B., Wielopolski, P., & Ciet, P. (2019). Magnetic resonance imaging of the larynx in the pediatric population: A systematic review. Pediatric Pulmonology, 54(4), 478–486. doi:10.1002/ppul.24250 |