Visualization of the Lingual Nerve with MENSA

Motivation: Standard sequences and coils do not provide the specific contrasts and high resolution needed for precise visualization of lingual nerves, which is essential to prevent injury during maxillofacial surgery. Goal(s): To image lingual nerves and surrounding tissues at a clinical field strength. Approach: We used high-resolution MENSA Nerve and oZTEo sequences, compared two different coils, and reconstructions with and without AirRecon DL denoising. Results: We could clearly distinguish the lingual nerve from surrounding tissues, with highest SNR and image quality achieved using the flexible coil and AirReconDL. Impact: Enhanced visualization of the lingual nerve will assist with diagnosis of damage and guide safer planning of maxillofacial surgery, reducing the risk of further damage.