[MR-micturating cystourethrography using radical k-space sampling].
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the feasibility of micturating cystourethrography (MCU) by means of real-time MR imaging with radial k-space sampling.


METHODS
The MR-MCU was performed in 7 adult male patients subsequent to a gadolinium(Gd)-DTPA-enhanced excretory MR-urography. The Gd-enhancement of the urethra was visualized by MR-fluoroscopy using a T1-weighted gradient-echo-sequence with radial k-space sampling and a slice thickness of 10 mm.


RESULTS
The proposed technique allowed in all 7 patients a dynamic realtime imaging of the Gd-flow inside the urethra during micturition. The normal anatomy of the entire course of the urethra was demonstrated in each patient, while simultaneously the relation to the prostate and pelvic floor became visible. Furthermore, the urinary bladder could be assessed by interactive repositioning of the slice orientation in any preferred direction. The ureters could also be visualized due to the persisting Gd-enhancement of the upper urinary tract after the preceding MR-urography.


CONCLUSIONS
MR-MCU using Gd-DTPA and radial k-space data acquisition is a novel imaging modality for a real-time visualization of the urethra during micturition without radiation exposure. This method also allows the assessment of the bladder, the pelvic floor, and the Gd-filled upper urinary tract which suggests a potential for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux and urinary incontinence.
Nolte-Ernsting
C C
CC
Klinik für Radiologische Diagnostik, Universitätsklinikum der RWTH Aachen.
Glowinski
A
A
Katterbach
F J
FJ
Adam
G
G
Rasche
V
V
Günther
R W
RW
D000328:Adult; D003287:Contrast Media; D004232:Diuretics; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D005665:Furosemide; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D006801:Humans; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography; D008297:Male; D014521:Urethra / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014554:Urination; D014567:Urography
D003287:Contrast Media; D004232:Diuretics; D005665:Furosemide; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA
MR-Miktionszystourethrographie mit radialer k-Raum-Abtastung.