MRI of the Pelvis

MRI is a powerful tool in the evaluation of pelvic disorders in both men and women.

Women's Pelvic Imaging

Imaging of the female pelvis is important in two instances:

• Imaging of Organs

  Ultrasound is the initial radiologic test in the work up of either ovarian or uterine abnormalities. However, MRI is significantly more sensitive and accurate in evaluating the female pelvis for most disorders. These include:

  • Tumors

    Tumors of the ovaries, uterus or cervix. MRI is quite sensitive in detecting and characterizing a broad range of benign or malignant tumors of the female pelvis. The distinction between benign and malignant is obviously crucial, and MRI is the modality of choice in making these distinctions.

  • Infectious

    In the evaluation of PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease), Tubo-ovarian abscess, or hydrosalpinx, MRI is more sensitive and specific than Ultrasound.

  • Congenital Abnormalities

    MRI is the test of choice in the evaluation of congenital abnormalities of the female reproductive system. The distinction between certain of these anomalies has important implications in the treatment of certain kinds of female infertility.

  • Uterus

    In the evaluation of the uterus for fibroids, or for infiltrative disorders such as adenomyosis, MRI is the test of choice. US can certainly be used for fibroid evaluation, but is not sensitive in the detection of adenomyosis.

  • Ovaries

    Ultrasound can adequately detect and follow ovarian cysts. However, in the characterization of complex cysts, MRI is necessary. In addition, in the total pelvic evaluation of endometriosis, MRI is the test of choice.

• Pelvic Floor Imaging

  Many women suffer from a variety of prolapse syndromes, including uterine or bladder prolapse, as well as vaginal and rectal prolapse. MRI can help in the diagnosis of complex prolapse syndromes. The initial diagnosis is made clinically, but many surgeons rely on MRI to distinguish between simple and complex prolapse syndromes prior to surgery.