Potential of MR-imaging in the paediatric abdomen.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the potential and relevant applications of MR-imaging (MRI) in typical paediatric abdominal conditions and diseases.


METHODS
The commonly used indications, applications, and sequences as well as typical imaging findings of paediatric abdominal MRI are presented and discussed, with emphasis on specific paediatric needs and queries. Only applications as used in routine clinical work are listed, other more sophisticated and advanced techniques will only briefly be mentioned. Furthermore, some aspects of paediatric MR Urography are presented and discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
Though conventional imaging methods (ultrasound and plain film) are valuable and - particularly in the paediatric abdomen - form the mainstay of routine imaging in paediatric abdominal radiology, some conditions require sectional imaging. MRI is increasingly applied to these queries in neonates, infants and children as an alternative method to CT without any radiation burden, and - when performed adequately and skilfully - can answer most treatment relevant questions. MR will increasingly be applied with new applications and broader availability also with functional information deriving from new equipment and research offering an ideal one stop imaging approach to many conditions also in children.
Michael
Riccabona
R
Department of Radiology, Division of Paediatric Radiology, LKH Graz, University Hospital, Auenbruggenplatz, A-8036 Graz, Austria. michael.riccabona@meduni-graz.at
D000005:Abdomen / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000098:blood supply / Q000473:pathology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004065:Digestive System Abnormalities / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004066:Digestive System Diseases / Q000151:congenital / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D014564:Urogenital Abnormalities / Q000175:diagnosis*; D014570:Urologic Diseases / Q000151:congenital / Q000175:diagnosis*; D054079:Vascular Malformations / Q000175:diagnosis*