Assessment of renal function with dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Nephrology

Background:

• Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging is a noninvasive diagnostic tool for renal anatomy and function.
• Key advantages include high contrast, temporal resolution, and no ionizing radiation exposure.
• Significant progress has been made in renal functional MR imaging methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key factors in acquiring and analyzing dynamic contrast-enhanced renal MR imaging (MR renography).
• To highlight significant recent developments in renal functional MR imaging.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of MR renography applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of acquisition parameters for dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging of the kidneys.
• Analysis of techniques for MR renography data interpretation.
• Synthesis of recent literature on advancements in renal functional MR imaging.

Main Results:

• MR imaging provides detailed renal anatomy and function in a single exam.
• MR renography allows for noninvasive assessment of kidney function.
• Recent developments have expanded the applications of renal functional MR imaging.

Conclusions:

• MR imaging, particularly MR renography, is a powerful noninvasive tool for evaluating kidney function.
• Continued advancements are enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of renal functional MR imaging.
• This review summarizes critical aspects and recent progress in MR renography.