Abstract #0649

In-Vivo Probabilistic Tractography of the Extracranial Branches of the Trigeminal Nerve

Kellen Mulford¹, Sean Moen², Andrew W. Grande², David Darrow², Donald R. Nixdorf³, Pierre-Francois Van de Moortele¹, and Can Özütemiz⁴

¹Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States, ²Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States, ³Division of TMD & Orofacial Pain, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States, ⁴Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States

Synopsis

Diffusion tensor imaging-based tractography of the peripheral nerves of the face is difficult owing to the complex tissue interfaces which degrade signal and introduce artifact. In this study, we used readout segmented EPI to attempt nerve fiber tracking of the inferior-alveolar, lingual, and infra-orbital branches of the trigeminal nerve. In 6 healthy participants we were able to visualize all three nerves on both sides of the face. This technique could be applies to nerve-injury and neuropathic pain populations to assess for alterations in nerve structure.

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