Magnetic resonance imaging of the bowel: today and tomorrow

S Kinner1, M L Hahnemann1, M Forsting1

  • 1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, Germany.

Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|February 24, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for small bowel evaluation is established. This review covers standard and emerging MR techniques for both small and large bowel imaging.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Small bowel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been clinically available for over 15 years.
  • A need exists to consolidate knowledge on established and novel MR techniques for bowel imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, sequences, and indications for small bowel evaluation.
  • To present newly evaluated, promising techniques that may advance MR imaging of the small and large bowel.

Main Methods:

  • Review of established and emerging magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques.
  • Analysis of typical sequences and clinical indications for small bowel imaging.
  • Evaluation of recent advancements in MR technology relevant to gastrointestinal imaging.

Main Results:

  • Established MRI techniques provide feasible and valuable insights into small bowel pathology.
  • Emerging MR techniques show promise for enhanced diagnostic accuracy and broader applications in both small and large bowel imaging.
  • The review synthesizes current knowledge and highlights future directions in MR enterography.

Conclusions:

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a mature yet evolving modality for small and large bowel assessment.
  • Continued development of MR techniques will further improve non-invasive evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • This review serves as a guide to current practices and future potential of MR imaging in gastroenterology.

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