The demonstration of tumours of the parapharyngeal space by magnetic resonance imaging.

Seven patients with parapharyngeal neck masses have been investigated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These presented a wide spectrum of the tumours commonly found in this location. Magnetic resonance imaging has been shown to be superior to computed tomography in the investigation of these patients. The advantages include: better delineation of the tumour in three planes and the extent of its involvement in the head and neck, the demonstration of neck vessels without intravenous contrast, the demonstration of the vascular nature of the mass, and better soft-tissue demonstration of skull base involvement. It is concluded that CT is no longer necessary as a routine procedure for the investigation of parapharyngeal tumours when MRI is available.