MRI Evaluation of Rectal Cancer: Staging and Restaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role in the staging and restaging of rectal cancer. Multiplanar high-resolution ( ≤3-mm section thickness) T2-weighted images are the primary sequences used for rectal cancer staging. No preprocedural bowel cleansing regimen, intravenous contrast material, nor endorectal coil is necessary. MRI is highly accurate for differentiating T1-T2 disease from T3 and T4 disease, an impor tant distinction as patients with T3 and T4 tumors typically undergo preoperative neoadjuvant chemoradiation before resection.

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology - January 13, 2017 Category: Radiology Authors: Courtney C. Moreno, Patrick S. Sullivan, Pardeep K. Mittal Source Type: research