Magnetic resonance imaging of the liver. Technique

Image quality and the ability to detect disease in the liver with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are critically dependent on the pulse sequences used and on the reduction of motion artifact. Selection of appropriate pulse sequences depends on a number of factors including magnetic field strength, equipment manufacturer, and availability of pulse sequences and motion artifact reduction techniques on the individual equipment used. This article summarizes some of the current methods available for reducing motion artifacts, discusses selection of imaging parameters for maximizing hepatic lesion detection, and reviews research on the use of contrast agents for MR imaging of the liver.