Continuous arterial spin-labeling perfusion magnetic resonance imaging of the human testis 1

Abstract

Rationale and Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine if continuous arterial spin-labeling perfusion magnetic resonance imaging could be used to detect testicular perfusion in human subjects. Materials and Methods. Continuous arterial spin-labeling magnetic resonance perfusion imaging was performed in seven normal male volunteers and in one patient with a painful scrotum following vasectomy. Results. Normal testicular blood flow was demonstrated in 14 of 14 normal testes in seven volunteers, as well as in two normally perfused testes in the post-vasectomy patient. A change in the steady state magnetization was observed in all of the normally perfused testes of the seven volunteers. Conclusion. It is possible to detect blood flow to the normally perfused testes using noninvasive spin-labeling perfusion magnetic resonance imaging. This modality could potentially, in future investigations, be used to image patients with suspected testicular torsion and resultant testicular ischemia.