Non-contrast MRI diagnostic protocol for pelvic venous disorders.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Vascular Imaging
• Pelvic Health

Background:

• Pelvic venous disorders (PeVD) present diagnostic challenges due to nonspecific symptoms and limitations of conventional imaging.
• Current methods often rely on ultrasound or contrast-enhanced scans, which are not universally suitable.
• There is a need for efficient and safe imaging techniques for PeVD assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a fast, non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol for comprehensive pelvic vein evaluation.
• To optimize MRI sequences for clear visualization of pelvic veins and exclusion of alternative pathologies.
• To enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient safety in PeVD diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• A 1.5 T MRI scanner was used to develop a time-efficient, non-contrast protocol.
• Key sequences included single-shot gradient echo T2/T1, IR FSE, T2 Motion Reduction, and T1 fat suppression Dixon.
• Parameters were selected to maximize venous visualization and minimize motion artifacts.

Main Results:

• The developed protocol provides fast, comprehensive imaging of the pelvic venous system.
• High-resolution anatomical detail allows reliable assessment of venous dilatation (e.g., ovarian veins, internal iliac veins).
• The protocol effectively aids in excluding alternative pathologies like endometriosis.

Conclusions:

• A non-contrast, time-efficient MRI protocol for evaluating PeVD is proposed.
• This approach enhances detection and characterization of venous abnormalities without contrast media.
• The protocol may improve patient safety, reduce examination time, and aid in managing chronic pelvic pain.