3D Observation of Pelvic Organs with Dynamic MRI Segmentation: A Bridge Toward Patient-Specific Models.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Pelvic Health
• Biomechanical Analysis

Background:

• Female pelvic organ prolapse (FPOP) is common and challenging to treat.
• Current diagnostic and understanding of FPOP remain incomplete.
• 3D imaging during strain could improve understanding and preoperative planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of 3D dynamic MRI for observing pelvic organ displacement and deformation.
• To assess the potential of this technique for understanding FPOP.

Main Methods:

• 12 healthy volunteers underwent dynamic MRI with intrarectal and intravaginal contrast gel.
• Multi-planar acquisitions were performed during rest and strain.
• Subject-specific 3D models were created through manual segmentation.

Main Results:

• 3D dynamic MRI successfully visualized pelvic organ displacement and deformation during strain.
• Acquisition rate allowed fluid observation, but manual segmentation was time-consuming (avg. 2h 33min).
• Difficulties were noted in segmenting the upper rectum and pelvic floor.

Conclusions:

• Multi-planar dynamic MRI enables observation of pelvic organ movement during strain.
• The technique shows promise but requires further evaluation in FPOP patients due to segmentation time.