MRI of the anal sphincter

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Noninvasive In Vivo Small Animal MRI and MRS: Basic Experimental Procedures
12:27

Noninvasive In Vivo Small Animal MRI and MRS: Basic Experimental Procedures

Published on: October 20, 2009

N M deSouza1, R Puni, W A Kmiot

  • 1Robert Steiner Magnetic Resonance Unit, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London, England.

Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|September 1, 1995
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the anal sphincter using an internal coil offers excellent visualization of normal anatomy and disease. This technique aids in diagnosing conditions like abscesses, fistulas, defects, and atrophy.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • The anal sphincter's anatomy and pathology are crucial for fecal continence.
  • Accurate imaging of the anal sphincter is essential for diagnosing various anorectal conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with an internal coil for visualizing the anal sphincter.
  • To demonstrate the normal anatomy, contrast enhancement patterns, and disease appearance of the anal sphincter using MRI.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a cylindrical saddle geometry coil placed within the anal canal for MRI.
  • Acquired T1- and T2-weighted SE, T1-weighted GE, and STIR images in volunteers and patients.
  • Administered intravenous gadopentetate dimeglumine for dynamic and conventional postcontrast imaging.

Main Results:

  • Internal coils were well-tolerated and provided high spatial resolution.
  • The internal sphincter showed higher signal intensity and brisk contrast enhancement compared to the external sphincter.
  • MRI successfully identified sphincteric abscesses, fistulous tracks, sphincter defects, and atrophy in patients.

Conclusions:

  • MRI of the anal sphincter with an internal coil provides excellent visualization of normal anatomy.
  • This imaging modality is valuable for the diagnosis of anorectal diseases affecting the sphincter.

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