Value of selective MIP reconstructions of respiratory triggered 3D-TSE-MR cholangiography on a workstation versus standard MIP reconstructions and single-shot MRCP.

Purpose: Comparison of anatomical visualisation and diagnostic value of sel ective MIP reconstructions of respiratory triggered 3D-TSE-MRCP versus stan dard MIP reconstructions and single-shot MRCP. Material and Methods: 50 pat ients with pancreaticobiliary disease were examined at 1.5 Tesla (ACS NT II , Philips Medical Systems) using a breath-hold single-shot (SS) and a respi ratory triggered 3D-TSE-MRCP technique in 12 standard MIP projections. Addi tional selective MIP reconstructions with different slice thickness (2, 4, 10 cm) and projections were performed on a workstation. Visualization of th e pancreaticobiliary system and the diagnostic value of the examinations we re analysed. Results: Single-shot and 3D-TSE in standard projections showed comparable anatomical visualisation. On selective MIP reconstructions the biliary system (55 p <0.002; 3D-TSE p <0.000) and the periampullary region (SS p <0.000; 3D-TSE p <0.003) were more clearly seen than on SS and standa rd MIP reconstructions. Furthermore, superior visualisation of the pancreat ic duct could be achieved with additional selective MIP reconstructions in contrast to standard MIP (p <0.003). Sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy sh owed superior results for selective and standard MIP reconstructions, but n o significant differences between the three techniques were found. Conclusi on: 55 and standard MIP reconstructions showed comparable anatomical visual isation. Selective MIP postprocessing on a workstation offers a better visu alisation of the pancreaticobiliary system and is useful for detecting path ological alterations.