Abstract #1519

Hollingsworth K, Lomas D, Hugill J, Sala E

When compared with conventional X-ray techniques, that use cannulation and injection of contrast medium to distend the salivary ducts, MR sialography is limited by the saliva volume and low intrinsic signal to noise ratio of the technique. This work, in 12 healthy volunteers, compares a 3D MIP MR sialography technique with no preparation with the same technique using both a passive occlusal device and a sialogogue to enhance saliva production immediately prior to the study. The results indicate that the enhancement approach significantly improved the visualisation of the main and secondary ducts with no increase in artefacts.