| Theme |
Virtual Endoscopy -- Present Status and Perspective |
| Title |
Virtual MR Cholangiopancreatoscopy -- A Feasible Technique? |
| Author |
Shinji Hirohashi |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Masahiko Sakamoto |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Rina Hirohashi |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Takahiro Itoh |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Satoru Kitano |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Yoshihiro Matsuo |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Kimihiko Kichikawa |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| Author |
Hajime Ohishi |
Departments of Radiology and Oncoradiology, Nara Medical University |
| [ Summary ] |
In this article, we reviewed the methods for use of and clinical applications for virtual endoscopy of the pancreatic duct, using data obtained from magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography(MRCP). MRCP depicted the pancreatobiliary tract as an area of markedly higher intensity than the surrounding tissue. It was possible to easily produce a virtual endoscopic image of the pancreatobiliary duct. Our group developed a technique for virtual MR cholangiopancreatos copy in 1997. But the spatial resolution of the method was limited because 2 D-MRCP data we used. Recently, 3D-MRCP has enabled us to produce thinner sections than those produced with 2D-MRCP, and the spatial resolution was improved. It was possible to obtain good images of the inner surface of the bile duct and pancreatic duct simultaneously by using this technique. These images provided additional information, especially for those patients with intraductal papillary mucinous tumors of the bile duct or pancreas. This may be a promising method for the diagnosis of super ficially spreading intraductal papillary mucinous tumors, determining operational methods, and follow-up studies. |