FAST MR-IMAGING AND THE DETECTION OF SMALL-BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

OBJECTIVE. Our aim was to determine whether fast MR imaging using the half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo (HASTE) MR sequen ce is accurate for diagnosis of small-bowel obstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Forty-three nonconsecutive patients with suspected small-bow el obstruction were evaluated with HASTE MR imaging during a 12-month period. Images were retrospectively assessed for the presence, level, and cause of bowel obstruction. Data were compared with results of con ventional radiography and findings at surgery when available. RESULTS. Of the 43 patients imaged, 29 patients had small-bowel obstruction re vealed by unenhanced or contrast-enhanced radiography or by CT, Surgic al confirmation was available in 21 patients. Small-bowel obstruction was shown by HASTE MR imaging in 26 (90%) of these 29 patients. HASTE MR images showed the correct level of obstruction in 19 (73%) of the 2 6 patients and showed the cause of obstruction in 13 (50%) of the 26 p atients. CONCLUSION. With a high degree of accuracy, HASTE MR imaging can show the presence and level of small-bowel obstruction.