Abstract
The recent introduction of multidetector-CT (MDCT) scanners for abdominal imaging has allowed the acquisition of optimal dynamic images with high temporal and z-axis resolution. MDCT also allows the comprehensive evaluation of the reconstruction image and CT angiography (CTA). However, the radiation exposure inherent in CT poses certain safety concerns, particularly with the proliferation of multiphasic thin-section techniques, and MDCT requires the use of iodinated contrast material, which is associated with a higher incidence of adverse and nephrotoxic reactions. With the recent introduction of 3D T1-weighted imaging and parallel acquisition techniques using 3.0T MRI, the imaging acquisition time has been remarkably shortened and the z-axis spatial resolution has improved. This study enrolled 38 patients with pancreatobiliary disease who underwent both gadolinium-enhanced 3D dynamic MRI and multiphasic CT using 16-MDCT. The overall enhanced image quality of the MRI axial images was superior to that of the axial MDCT images. Multiphasic T1-weighted three-dimensional (3D) Gd-enhanced MR examination allows the comprehensive evaluation of the hepatic vascular anatomy and parenchyma in patients. The improved temporal and spatial resolution of 3T MRI may therefore be essential for the detection and characterization of focal pancreatobiliary lesions.
