In most cases, radiographies using a contrast medium or ultrasound examination are sufficient to diagnose liver and bile duct diseases. But with difficult diagnosis, another method can be assigned - magnetic resonance cholangiography. Consider what this method is, and what pathologies cholangiography with MRI allows you to diagnose.
Indication of the method of MR-cholangiography
As a rule, MR-cholangiography is performed as an addition to MRI of the abdominal organs and is prescribed for thorough examination of the bile ducts. In addition, this technique provides an opportunity to learn about the state of the gallbladder, intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary, pancreatic ducts, and also to some extent - the liver and pancreatic tissue.
Indications for the procedure can be:
- unidentified causes of mechanical jaundice ;
- suspicion of the presence of constrictions, neoplasms, stones and other mechanical obstructions in the ducts;
- various deviations in the development of the bile duct system;
- abdominal injuries, unsuccessful surgical interventions;
- symptoms that may indicate a violation of the secretion of bile and pancreatic juice (jaundice, pruritus , pain in the right hypochondrium, etc.).
How is MR-cholangiography performed?
The procedure is non-invasive and safe for the patient. It is performed on an empty stomach and takes, on average, about 40 minutes. The patient during the examination is in a horizontal position on the tomograph table, and during the procedure the high-frequency magnetic field is exposed to the upper abdominal region. In this case, the patient must observe immobility. In case of suspicion of the presence of tumors, a preliminary introduction of a contrast agent is required.