Magnetic Resonance of Pelvic and Gastrointestinal Emergencies

Sirote Wongwaisayawan1, Rathachai Kaewlai1, Matthew Dattwyler2

  • 1Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, 270 Rama VI Road, Ratchatewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.

Insights

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging offers better tissue detail without radiation, making it increasingly valuable in emergency departments. This review covers MR protocols and findings for common acute abdominopelvic conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Computed tomography (CT) currently dominates emergency imaging.
  • Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging offers superior soft tissue contrast and avoids ionizing radiation.
  • Advancements in MR technology are overcoming previous limitations for emergency use.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review MR imaging protocols for emergency settings.
  • To describe the MR appearance of common acute abdominopelvic pathologies.
  • To support the increased use of MR in emergency departments.

Main Methods:

  • Review of MR imaging protocols.
  • Discussion of MR findings for specific pathologies.
  • Focus on acute pelvic, scrotal, and gastrointestinal conditions.

Main Results:

  • MR imaging provides precise tissue characterization.
  • Streamlined protocols and rapid sequences facilitate emergent MR use.
  • Knowledge of MR appearance is essential for diagnosing acute abdominopelvic issues.

Conclusions:

  • MR imaging is becoming more accepted in emergency settings.
  • Understanding MR findings is crucial for effective emergency care.
  • MR offers significant advantages over CT for certain emergency diagnoses.

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