Hepatic perfusion disorders: Computer-tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Hepatology

Background:

• The liver receives 75% of its blood supply from the portal vein and 25% from the hepatic artery.
• Accurate assessment of liver perfusion is crucial for diagnosing various hepatic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the findings of helical computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in hepatic perfusion disorders.
• To highlight the utility of rapid, multi-phase imaging for evaluating liver parenchyma and detecting lesions.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing helical CT and MR angiography for rapid, single breath-hold imaging to minimize motion artifacts.
• Performing three-phase imaging (hepatic arterial, portal venous, and parenchymal phases) for comprehensive hepatic evaluation.

Main Results:

• Helical CT and MRI allow for improved evaluation of hepatic perfusion disorders.
• Rapid imaging facilitates simultaneous assessment of perfusion, tumor detection, and characterization within a single study.
• Classification of perfusion abnormalities includes portal and arterial disorders, hepatic vein issues, intrahepatic vascular communications, and lesions.

Conclusions:

• Helical CT and MRI are valuable tools for diagnosing a spectrum of hepatic perfusion abnormalities.
• Understanding differential diagnoses and potential pitfalls is essential for accurate interpretation of focal hepatic lesions.