MR in the evaluation of gynecologic tumor

MR imaging has proved value in the study of the female pelvis. In the past five years numerous reports from all over the world have testified to the superiority of MR imaging over Ultrasound (US) and Computed Tomography (CT) in the assessment of a wide range of conditions, including congenital abnormalities, benign or malignant tumors, and obstetrics. MR imaging should not only be used as a problem-solving modality, but also should have an immediate impact on treatment alternatives. Furthermore, the continuing advances in MR Imaging (e.g. development of new pulse sequences and surface coils) have imposed further demands on radiologists to familiarize with the current state of MR imaging. This article reviews the advantages, limitations, and unknown factors of some aspects of MR imaging of tumors in the female pelvis, including the use of contrast media, fast spin echo-imaging and surface coils.