Neeraj Lalwani MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Jean H. Lee MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Manjiri K. Dighe MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Puneet Bhargava MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jeffrey Harold Maki MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Research Consultant, Merge Healthcare Incorporated Research support, Bracco Group Research support, Bayer AG Speakers Bureau, Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc

Harpreet Kaur Pannu MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To provide the radiologist a comprehensive practical guide to understanding MR pelvic floor anatomy, the technique of MR defecography, and how to interpret pelvic floor pathology.

• Introduction and anatomy • Technique: Preparation and organ opacification, instructions to the patient, MR System and positioning, protocol and image orientation • MR Anatomy: Three compartments, pelvic muscles and ligaments • What surgeons want to know • Image analysis: Reference lines, anorectal angle, enteroceles, cystoceles, cervical prolapse, rectal intussusception, descending perineal syndrome, spastic pelvic floor syndrome, anal incontinence • Tips and tricks • Functional cine MRI versus fluoroscopy • Pitfalls  

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a frequent problem, and effective imaging pre-operative assessment can greatly aid with surgical decision making and tailored management. MR defecography and functional pelvic MR imaging shows considerable promise and is emerging as the investigation of choice. Comprehensive knowledge of functional pelvic MR imaging and its interpretation is obligatory in this new era, and radiologists should be well versed inf the technique of functional MR imaging and its interpretation.  

Lalwani, N, Lee, J, Dighe, M, Bhargava, P, Maki, J, Pannu, H, MR Defecography: How to Perform and How to Interpret?.  Radiological Society of North America 2013 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, December 1 - December 6, 2013 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2013/13016349.html