TECHNIQUE OF MR-GUIDED CORE BIOPSY OF ABD OMINAL MASSES USING AN OPENLOW-FIELD SCANNER - FEASIBILITY AND FIRST CLINICAL-RESULTS

Purpose: Due to high soft-tissue contrast and multiplanar imaging capa bilities MRI is an interesting modality to perform image-guided biopsi es. We checked on the feasibility of MR-guided core biopsies of abdomi nal masses with an open low-field scanner (0.2 Tesla; vertical field a xis). Methods: 9 patients underwent MR-guided biopsies of abdominal ta rget lesions (6 focal liver lesions, two adrenal masses, one pelvic ma ss). Different MR-compatible core biopsy instruments were used (needle diameters 14 G-18 G). MR scans during the procedures were obtained ap plying T-1-weighted gradient echo sequences suitable for breath-hold i maging. Results: In each case, needle guidance was reliable, so that t he biopsy instrument could be positioned correctly. Multiplanar imagin g capabilities enabled even angled approaches to upper abdominal masse s to be realized safely. The combination of magnet design and table de sign offered suitable access to the patient. Conclusion: Using an open low-field scanner, MR-guided core biopsies of abdominal masses are pr acticable.