Imaging leiomyomas prior to endoscopic surgery: the role of magnetic resonance imaging

Objective To determine whether the use of scanning by magnetic resonance im aging (MRI) prior to endoscopic surgery for uterine fibroids gave an improv ed outcome compared with the use of ultrasound. Design A retrospective analysis of the available literature, Results The improved imaging afforded by MRI results In a better differenti ation of fibroids from focal adenomyomas, and more accurate assessment of t he size, number and location of fibroids within the uterus, when compared w ith the results obtained, by ultrasound scanning. Conclusions In situations such as infertility where uterine conservation is paramount, the extra information provided by MRI allows better preoperativ e counselling and planning, and should be considered as an alternative to u ltrasound scanning. However, it should not be considered as a first-line in vestigation when patients are undergoing hysterectomy or when the diagnosis is thought to be diffuse adenomyosis.