Table 7 Advantages and disadvantages of different magnetic resonance sequences for trigeminal root entry zone and adjacent vessels

3D-TOF-MR

Relationship between artery and nerve is clearly displayed

Poor visualization of low flow and small vessels

3D-CISS

Coronal and oblique sagittal reconstruction to visualize the vessel and its origination surrounding the nerve

Low contrast ratio to soft tissue, even between soft tissue and bone

3D-FIESTA

Hyperintense cerebrospinal fluid is clearly contrasted with blood vessels and hypointense nerves

Low contrast resolution between soft and hard tissues

3D-SPACE

High contrast ratio between cerebrospinal fluid and tissues, providing accurate visualization of the neurovascular structures

High T2WI signal impact the display of small vessel