Magnetic resonance imaging of the tongue and oropharynx

In general, MRI produces superior soft tissue detail in evaluating the tongue and oropharynx than does CT. MRI is therefore considered the study of choice in this area. Lack of artifact from dental amalgam and beam hardening artifact from the mandible on MRI also eliminates two major shortcomings of CT in the examination of this area. Finally, the ability of MRI to obtain direct coronal and sagittal scan planes is a distinct advantage in recognizing intrinsic tongue musculature and assessing tumor volume and spread for treatment planning.