Diffusion-weighted imaging findings of adnexal torsion: initial results

Our purpose is to clarify the diffusion-weighted (DW) imaging findings of adnexal torsion. We retrospectively analyzed the DW imaging findings in 11 consecutive patients with surgical confirmation of adnexal torsion. We assessed signal intensity of the adnexal mass and fallopian tube thickening, and the location of abnormal signal intensity within the adnexal mass. On DW imaging, thickening of the fallopian tube was apparent as abnormal signal intensity in 8 of 11 patients. Abnormal signal intensity was inhomogeneous in 7 of 8 patients. Abnormal signal intensity on DW imaging was observed in 10 of 11 adnexal masses, and in the walls of 7 out of 8 adnexal cystic lesions. In adnexal torsion, DW imaging showed abnormal signal intensity in the thickened fallopian tube and in the wall of cystic ovarian lesions. These findings would be feasible to diagnose adnexal torsion.