DYNAMIC CONTRAST-ENHANCED IR IMAGING OF THE PORTAL VENOUS SYSTEM - COMPARISON WITH X-RAY ANGIOGRAPHY

PURPOSE: To compare dynamic contrast material-enhanced multisection ma gnetic resonance (MR) imaging with x-ray angiography in the evaluation of the portal venous system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen patients underwent preoperative x-ray angiography and dynamic contrast-enhance d MR imaging. MR imaging was performed at 1.0 T with a multisection br eath-hold fast low-angle shot (FLASH) technique in the coronal-oblique plane, before and after injection of a bolus of gadopentetate dimeglu mine. The portal vein, its right and left intrahepatic branches, the s plenic veins, and the superior mesenteric veins were examined. The pre sence of varices was also assessed. RESULTS: Of the 84 vessels evaluat ed with both techniques, appearances were similar in 76 (90%). Both ex aminations showed the main portal vein to be patent in nine patients, occluded in five, and patent but abnormal in two. Findings in the main portal vein were discordant in two patients. In one patient, surgical follow-up helped confirm the findings at MR imaging. CONCLUSION: MR i maging can replace x-ray angiography in the preoperative evaluation of portal vein patency in most patients.