Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography; 26(5):661-675.
Mannudeep KK, Maher MM, Sahani DV, Digmurthy S, Saini S.
Recent technological developments in multidetector CT allow pancreatic imaging in a single breath-hold, which is especially valuable in obtaining isotropic three-dimensional reformations that improve our ability to provide accurate preopera-tive vascular mapping. Advanced MR technology allows faster imaging of pancreas, thus facilitating MR cholangiopancreatography. Use of tissue-specific MR contrast agents, endoscopic ultrasound, and positron emission tomography (PET) in pancreatic imaging has evolved considerably. This review article discusses the roles of CT, MR, endoscopic ultrasound, and PET imaging in the pancreas.
Early diagnosis and accurate staging of pancreatic diseases require state-of-the-art cross-sectional imaging with careful selection of protocols (1). CT and ultraso-nography (US) are commonly used imaging modalities for the evaluation of pancreatic pathology. Multislice CT (MSCT) is now regarded as the most efficient modality for imaging inflammatory and neoplastic maladies of the pancreas (2,3). Development of faster imaging systems with improved contrast resolution and tissue-specific contrast agents, such as mangafodipir trisodium, show promise in enhancing the role of MRI in imaging pancreatic abnormalities with equivocal features on MSCT. In addition, MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is being rapidly accepted as a noninvasive and accurate method of imaging the pancreatic duct and is now considered the primary imaging technique for the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. Endoscopic US (BUS) and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging have emerged as important complimentary imaging modalities for imaging of pancreatic abnormalities (2). This review article discusses the current state of modern imaging techniques, such as CT, MRI, BUS, and PET scan, in imaging of the pancreas.