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[Quantitative recording of renal function with magnetic resonance tomography]
S O Schoenberg1, M Bock, S Aumann
1Abteilung radiologische Diagnostik und Therapie, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Heidelberg. S.Schoenberg@dkfz.de
Aim:
To show the potential of various methods in magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of renal function.
Material And Methods:
A combined assessment of renal morphology, renal hemodynamics and function is proposed. Various techniques are explained, including multiphasic 3D gadolinium MR angiography, MR phase-contrast flow measurements, quantitative perfusion measurements with intravascular contrast agents, and MR renography and MR urography. The use of these techniques is demonstrated for renovascular diseases.
Results:
The combined use of these techniques allows renal artery stenosis to be accurately detected and evaluation of renal blood flow, perfusion, glomerular filtration rate, and renal excretion. Based on true quantitative parameters, the hemodynamic and functional significance of the stenosis can be assessed. Renovascular diseases can be differentiated from renoparenchymal disease.
Conclusion:
For the assessment of renal function, functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques are an important alternative to nuclear medicine. The predictive value regarding the effect of revascularization is currently under investigation.