The role of magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of Gynecological Disorders

Abstract

Background Pelvic disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide-Studies have shown that MRI is invaluable in evaluating the female gynecological pelvis where Computed Tomography (CT) and Ultrasound (US) have been found to be inconclusive.' Methodology This was a prospective descriptive study at the Kenyatta National Hospital and the Plaza Imaging Solutions during the period November 2008 to April 2009. Sixty two (62) female patients referred for gynecological pelvic MRI were studied. Objective The objective of this study was to determine the pattern of pelvic disease seen in the gynecological patients using 1.5 Tesla MRI units at two MRI centers in Nairobi. The study also established the age, presenting complaints and indications of patients who were referred for MRI examination. Results Sixty two female patients with a mean age of 44.8 years and an age- range of 15years to 80years were included. 46 of the patients were referred for MRI as a secondary imaging modality after inconclusive US (54.0%) and inconclusive CT (19.0%) examinations. Assessment of carcinoma of the cervix was the commonest clinical indication (30.6%) followed by pelvic mass (24.2%). Pelvic mass was the most common presenting complaint at 39.9%. MRI diagnosis was conclusive in 90.3% cases with the commonest diagnosis being carcinoma of the cervix (28.6%). Conclusion MRI was a useful imaging modality in the evaluation of gynecological disorders. Its main application was in evaluating gynecological malignancy. It was also useful in the further evaluation of lesions in inconclusive ultrasound and Computed tomography examinations