Diagnostic Possibilities of Magnetic Resonance Cholangiography with Intravenous Contrast in Diseases of the Bile Ducts

Abstract

Every year the number of operations on the hepatobiliary zone is steadily increasing due to diseases of the bile ducts. Against this background, there is a need for an accurate diagnosis of complications of these interventions; classical magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is of limited use. With the introduction of a liver-specific contrast agent (Gd-EOB-DTPA), the possibility of diagnosing diseases of the bile ducts has expanded. In this clinical review, we review the technical aspects and benefits of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MR cholangiography. Various types of contrast agents, methods of their use in MRI, the dependence of the signal intensity in the bile ducts on the time of administration of the substance, the presence of chronic liver diseases are covered in detail. Separately, studies are given on the diagnosis of diseases of the bile ducts with altered biliary anatomy, biliary fistulas after surgical interventions. In conclusion, data are presented on promising studies of the functional state of the liver based on the use of MRI with hepatotropic contrast enhancement.