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Identification of the periprostatic venous plexus by MR imaging
P Y Poon1, M J Bronskill, C S Poon
1Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|March 1, 1991
Summary
A high signal intensity rim around the prostate was identified using T2-weighted MRI. Investigations confirmed this rim represents the periprostatic venous plexus, not pelvic fat.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Anatomy
Background:
- T2-weighted MRI sequences are crucial for prostate imaging.
- A distinct high signal intensity rim surrounding the prostate is often observed.
- The exact anatomical and physiological nature of this rim requires clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the high signal intensity rim observed around the prostate on T2-weighted MRI.
- To differentiate this rim from surrounding pelvic fat.
- To identify the structure responsible for the observed imaging characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized T2-weighted spin echo (2,000/60) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Analyzed T1 and T2 relaxation times of the rim.
- Assessed inflow effects on MRI.
- Evaluated signal intensity changes after intravenous gadolinium-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) administration.
Main Results:
- The high signal intensity rim exhibited T1 and T2 relaxation times comparable to heparinized blood.
- The rim showed minimal inflow effect on MRI.
- Post-contrast administration of Gd-DTPA resulted in increased signal intensity of the rim.
- The rim's characteristics excluded it as being part of the pelvic fat.
Conclusions:
- The observed high signal intensity rim on T2-weighted MRI is identified as the periprostatic venous plexus.
- This finding aids in accurate anatomical delineation of prostatic structures.
- Understanding the periprostatic venous plexus is important for interpreting prostate MRI findings.