MAGNETIC-RESONANCE-IMAGING OF PELVIC TUMORS IN CHILDREN

Pelvic tumors in children may be large, complex and of unknown origin. Preoperative radiological information regarding tumor localization an d extent becomes essential in these cases for proper staging and surgi cal planning. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers the ability to e nhance the surgical preparation of children who present with a pelvic mass. Advantages of MRI over computerized tomography include improved soft tissue characterization, signal enhancement of neuroendocrine tum ors and multiplanar imaging. These features better define the origin, size and extent of tumors. In addition, no ionizing radiation is requi red. Several examples of pelvic tumors are presented. The new anatomic al information provided by MRI altered surgical planning previously ba sed on computerized tomography findings alone.