Low cost MRI of the paranasal sinuses.

The use of automated tuning, automated MR protocol sequences, surface coils, and grouping of patients with similar examinations, patient throughput can be greatly accelerated for MRI scanning. These measures coupled with high volume scanning permit significant reductions in cost so that MRI can be performed at a price range equal to or less than plain films for some examinations. The ability of MRI to perform axial, sagittal and coronal scans with excellent tissue contrast raises the possibility of substituting MRI for sinus x-rays. Based on our preliminary experience we have the opinion that MR is equal to/or better than CT in this region. This preference is currently being investigated. Only the cost issue will be addressed in this report.