Clinical use of MRI: Virtual Dark-Lumen MR Colonography: Technique, Application and Accuracy

Abstract

Conventional colonoscopy represents the gold standard for the detection of colorectal pathologies. However, due to its invasiveness and procedure-related discomfort, patient acceptance is somtimes poor. In the last few years, the use of MR Colonography has been shown to be an appropriate diagnostic tool for the detection of colorectal pathologies. Dark-lumen MR Colonography has been introduced. This technique is based on the acquisition of a T1-weighted sequence following the administration of a water-enema and the intravenous administration of paramagnetic contrast. This review article describes the underlying technique of dark-lumen MR Colonography, the process of data acquisition, image interpretation, as well as application and accuracy. Additionally, the benefits of this approach compared to conventional colonoscopy, new techniques to improve patient acceptance and diagnostic accuracy will be reviewed. Keywords: Conventional colonoscopy, virtual