Spectrum of MRCP findings: An Initial Experience with 3.0 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging System in Nepal

Abstract

Introduction: Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination used in the evaluation of hepatobiliary and pancreatic tree. It is a non-invasive alternative to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Here we attempted to summarize the spectrum of MRCP findings in a cohort of patients undergoing MRCP examination in a 3.0 Tesla MRI system, the first of its kind in Nepal.

Methods: The study was carried among patients undergoing MRCP in a 3.0 Tesla MRI system from November 24, 2014 to June 29, 2015. 167 patients (73 male and 94 female, age range, 1-87 years, mean age, 49.8years) were identified who underwent MRCP. MRCP was performed on a 3.0 Tesla MR scanner (Ingenia, Philips Medical System) using a sixteen-element quadrature phased array body coil over the liver. The MRCP findings were reviewed and various imaging findings were recorded. The findings were analyzed using SPSS.

Results: MRCP was normal in 44(26.2%) patients. Various findings were found in the biliary ducts, liver, gall bladder, pancreas and outside the pancreas and liver. Commonest biliary duct pathology was choledocholithiasis (25.7%). Commonest liver pathology was chronic liver disease (3%). Commonest pancreatic parenchymal pathology was acute pancreatitis (4.2%). Commonest pancreatic duct pathology was dilated pancreatic duct (5.4%). Gall bladder was seen in 37 (22%) patients, and 30 patients were status post cholecystectomy (17.9%). Extra pancreaticobiliary findings included pleural effusion, ascites, splenomegaly, juxtapapillary duodenal diverticulum etc.

Conclusion: MRCP is the choice of investigation for the non-invasive diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary disorders. In the current review, we have summarized the spectrum of MRCP findings and shared an early experience with 3.0 Tesla MRCP system in Nepal. The findings are comparable to the existing literature in the subject.