Fascial space odontogenic infections: Ultrasonography as an alternative to magnetic resonance imaging

BACKGROUND: The introduction of modern diagnostic tools has transformed the field of maxillofacial radiology. Odontogenic infection and fascial space involvement have been evaluated with many diagnostic tools, including ultrasonography (USG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). AIM: To explore USG as an alternative model to MRI in the detection of fascial space spread of odontogenic infections. METHODS: Among 20 patients, 50 fascial spaces were clinically diagnosed with odontogenic infection and included in this prospective study. Fascial space infection involvement was examined by USG and MRI. Results were compared for both and confirmed by microbiological testing. RESULTS: Ultrasonography identified 42 (84%) of 50 involved fascial spaces. Whereas MRI identified all 50 (100%). USG could stage the infections from edematous change to cellulitis to complete abscess formation. CONCLUSION: MRI was superior in recognizing deep fascial space infections compared to USG. However, USG is a significant addition and has a definite role in prognosticating the stage of infection and exact anatomic location in superficial space infections.