Magnetic Resonance of Pelvic and Gastrointestinal Emergencies

Abstract

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is gaining increased acceptance in the emergency setting despite the continued dominance of computed tomography. MR has the advantages of more precise tissue characterization, superior soft tissue contrast, and a lack of ionizing radiation. Traditional barriers to emergent MR are being overcome by streamlined imaging protocols and newer rapid-acquisition sequences. As the utilization of MR imaging in the emergency department increases, a strong working knowledge of the MR appearance of the most commonly encountered abdominopelvic pathologies is essential. In this article, MR imaging protocols and findings of acute pelvic, scrotal, and gastrointestinal pathologies are discussed.

Keywords: Acute appendicitis; Degenerating leiomyoma; Gastrointestinal emergencies; Magnetic resonance imaging; Ovarian torsion; Pelvic emergencies; Pelvic inflammatory disease; Testicular torsion.