[Magnetic resonance enterography/enteroclysis : Technical aspects and indications].

BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance enterography/enteroclysma (MRE) is an examination technique without ionizing radiation that allows assessment of bowel wall changes and extraluminal pathologies/complications such as in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, among others.

OBJECTIVES: To discuss requirements for optimal MR imaging of the small bowel, technical basis of MRE and principles for the development and optimization of a MRE protocol, and clinical indications for this specific imaging technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Guidelines, basic and review papers will be analyzed.

RESULTS: MRE enables the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases and neoplasms and their evaluation during therapy. In addition to intra- and transmural changes, extramural pathologies and complications can also be detected. Standard sequences include steady-state free precession sequences, T2-weighted single-shot fast spin echo sequences, and three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted gradient echo (GRE) sequences with fat saturation after contrast administration. Prior to image acquisition, optimal patient preparation and distension of the bowel using intraluminal contrast agents is necessary.

CONCLUSIONS: Careful patient preparation for MRE, understanding of optimal imaging technique, and appropriate clinical indications are essential to achieve high-quality images of the bowel for accurate assessment and diagnosis as well as therapy monitoring of small bowel disease.