A research team from Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital has developed an integrated multimodal non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (NC-MRI) technology that generates high-resolution venous images and hemodynamic data without the need for contrast agents or radiation. This innovative approach offers a precise diagnostic solution for pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) and is particularly beneficial for high-risk patients due to its non-invasive and highly accurate nature.
The team, led by Assistant Professor Chien-Wei Chen, successfully utilized multimodal NC-MRI to evaluate PCS with precision. The technology enables the creation of high-resolution venous images and provides detailed hemodynamic parameters without relying on contrast agents or radiation exposure.
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome: A Critical Women’s Health Concern
PCS is a common chronic condition in women, characterized by persistent lower abdominal pain, menstrual irregularities, and venous dysfunction. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as ultrasound, are heavily dependent on operator expertise, while CT angiography (CTA) and venography involve radiation exposure and the use of contrast agents, making them unsuitable for high-risk patients. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA), while capable of providing vascular imaging, has limitations in visualizing the venous system.
Combining Precision and Safety with Multimodal Imaging
The NC-MRI technology integrates two-dimensional phase-contrast MRI (2D PC-MRI) with three-dimensional turbo spin echo short inversion time inversion recovery (3D TSE STIR) sequences, allowing for high-resolution imaging without contrast agents or radiation. This technology not only offers clear depictions of venous anatomy but also provides hemodynamic data such as flow velocity and volume. Compared to traditional diagnostic methods, it presents several advantages:
Non-Invasive and Radiation-Free: Avoids the risk of allergic reactions and nephrotoxicity associated with contrast agents, as well as the risks of radiation exposure, making it ideal for high-risk patients, such as those with contrast agent allergies, impaired renal function, or contraindications for radiation.
High Diagnostic Accuracy: Provides clear visualization of venous system abnormalities, including reflux and obstruction, significantly enhancing diagnostic precision for PCS.
Integrated Multimodal Imaging: Combines multiple sequences to deliver comprehensive diagnostic information while reducing examination time.
In a study involving 36 PCS patients and 10 healthy controls, significant differences in venous parameters were observed between the two groups, particularly with left ovarian vein reflux being more pronounced in PCS patients. The results demonstrated the technology’s sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy at 80.6%, 90%, and 82.6%, respectively.
Advancing Commercialization and Medical Development
Assistant Professor Chien-Wei Chen highlighted that the non-invasive nature and high diagnostic accuracy of this technology provide a safe and reliable tool for both medical institutions and patients. Moving forward, the team aims to continue refining the technology, including algorithm optimization, integration of new modalities, and expansion into other medical applications. Efforts are also underway to promote commercialization through market outreach, user education, licensing, and technology transfer, ensuring that more healthcare providers and patients can benefit from this innovative approach. This advancement offers a more precise and safer diagnostic option, particularly for improving women’s health outcomes.
Resource: 避開過敏與腎毒性 無顯影劑MRI精準診斷骨盆腔充血綜合症
