Rectal imaging: Part 1, high-resolution MRI of carcinoma of the rectum at 3 T

Vivek Gowdra Halappa, Celia Pamela Corona Villalobos, Susanne Bonekamp, Susan L. Gearhart, Jonathan Efron, Joseph Herman, Ihab R. Kamel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

34 Scopus citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. MRI is currently the imaging modality of choice for the detection, characterization, and staging of rectal cancer. A variety of examinations have been used for preoperative staging of rectal cancer, including digital rectal examination, endorectal (endoscopic) ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Endoscopic ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice for small and small superficial tumors. MRI is superior to CT for assessing invasion to adjacent organs and structures, especially low tumors that carry a high risk of recurrence. CONCLUSION. High-resolution MRI is an accurate and sensitive imaging method delineating tumoral margins, mesorectal involvement, nodes, and distant metastasis. In this article, we will review the utility of rectal MRI in local staging, preoperative evaluation, and surgical planning. MRI at 3 T can accurately delineate the mesorectal fascia involvement, which is one of the main decision points in planning treatment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)W35-W42
JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology
Volume199
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2012

Keywords

  • 3-T MRI
  • Rectal cancer
  • Tumor staging

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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