[Value of selective MIP reconstructions in respiratory triggered 3D TSE MR-cholangiography on a workstation in comparison with MIP standard projections and single-shot MRCP].
OBJECTIVE
Comparison of anatomical visualisation and diagnostic value of selective MIP reconstructions of respiratory triggered 3D-TSE-MRCP versus standard MIP reconstructions and single-shot MRCP.


METHODS
50 patients with pancreaticobiliary disease were examined at 1.5 Tesla (ACS NT II, Philips Medical Systems) using a breath-hold single-shot (SS) and a respiratory triggered 3D-TSE-MRCP technique in 12 standard MIP projections. Additional selective MIP reconstructions with different slice thickness (2, 4, 10 cm) and projections were performed on a workstation. Visualization of the pancreaticobiliary system and the diagnostic value of the examinations were analysed.


RESULTS
Single-shot and 3D-TSE in standard projections showed comparable anatomical visualisation. On selective MIP reconstructions the biliary system (SS p < 0.002; 3D-TSE p < 0.000) and the periampullary region (SS p < 0.000; 3D-TSE p < 0.003) were more clearly seen than on SS and standard MIP reconstructions. Furthermore, superior visualisation of the pancreatic duct could be achieved with additional selective MIP reconstructions in contrast to standard MIP (p < 0.003). Sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy showed superior results for selective and standard MIP reconstructions, but no significant differences between the three techniques were found.


CONCLUSIONS
SS and standard MIP reconstructions showed comparable anatomical visualisation. Selective MIP postprocessing on a workstation offers a better visualisation of the pancreaticobiliary system and is useful for detecting pathological alterations.
Schaible
R
R
Radiologische Klinik der Universität Bonn. rolfschaible@t.online.de
Textor
J
J
Kreft
B
B
Neubrand
M
M
Schild
H
H
D016477:Artifacts; D001652:Bile Ducts / Q000473:pathology; D001660:Biliary Tract Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002758:Cholangiography / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003199:Computer Systems; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008838:Microcomputers; D008875:Middle Aged; D010182:Pancreatic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010183:Pancreatic Ducts / Q000473:pathology; D012123:Pulmonary Ventilation / Q000502:physiology*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity