Assessment of the extent of cervical cancer spread using magnetic resonance imaging

Findings of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were analyzed for patients with cervical cancer. The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of high-field MRI in the assessment of extension of cervical cancer for planning further treatment. The study included 66 cervical cancer patients. MRI was performed using MAGNETOM ESSENZA 1.5Т (SIEMENS, Germany) MRI scanner. To assess tumor extension and define tumor margins, an intravenous bolus injection of paramagnetic contrast agent was used. Series of sections and delayed scans in the standard T1-weighted sequence were obtained. The analysis of diagnostic value of MRI in the assessment of the extent of cervical cancer spread was carried out. Criteria characterizing tumor extension outside the cervix were identified.