Abstract

ObjectiveTo develop imaging guidelines for the MR work-up of female genital tract congenital anomalies (FGTCA).MethodsThese guidelines were prepared based on a questionnaire sent to all members of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) Female Pelvic Imaging Working Group (FPI-WG), critical review of the literature and expert consensus decision.ResultsThe returned questionnaires from 17 different institutions have shown reasonable homogeneity of practice. Recommendations with focus on patient preparation and MR protocol are proposed, as these are key to optimised examinations. Details on MR sequences and planning of uterus-orientated sequences are provided.ConclusionsThe multiplanar capabilities and soft tissue resolution of MRI provide superb characterisation of the wide spectrum of findings in FGTCA. A standardised imaging protocol and method of reporting ensures that the salient features are recognised, contributing to a correct diagnosis and classification of FGTCA, associated anomalies and complications. These imaging guidelines are based on current practice among expert radiologists in the field and incorporate up to date information regarding MR protocols and essentials of recently published classification systems.Key Points• MRI allows comprehensive evaluation of female genital tract congenital anomalies, in a single examination.• A dedicated MRI protocol comprises uterus-orientated sequences and vaginal and renal evaluation.• Integration of classification systems and structured reporting helps in successful communication of the imaging findings.

Highlights

  • The majority of female genital tract congenital anomalies (FGTCA) affect the uterus

  • Integration of classification systems and structured reporting helps in successful communication of the imaging findings

  • FGTCA can be comprehensively evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to aid in characterisation of the anomaly and assessment of associated complications and for preoperative planning [4,5,6,7]

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Summary

Introduction

The majority of female genital tract congenital anomalies (FGTCA) affect the uterus. the spectrum of FGTCA is large, encompassing anomalies of the cervix, vagina, vulvar introitus and fallopian tubes, with or without associated malformations of the ovary, urinary tract, skeleton and other organs [1, 2]. the embryology of the female genital tract is complex and still not fully understood, a basic knowledge is important for a better understanding of the pathogenesis of FGTCA and associated anomalies [3].FGTCA can be comprehensively evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to aid in characterisation of the anomaly and assessment of associated complications and for preoperative planning [4,5,6,7].Several classification systems have been proposed to describe FGTCA. The majority of female genital tract congenital anomalies (FGTCA) affect the uterus. The spectrum of FGTCA is large, encompassing anomalies of the cervix, vagina, vulvar introitus and fallopian tubes, with or without associated malformations of the ovary, urinary tract, skeleton and other organs [1, 2]. The embryology of the female genital tract is complex and still not fully understood, a basic knowledge is important for a better understanding of the pathogenesis of FGTCA and associated anomalies [3]. FGTCA can be comprehensively evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to aid in characterisation of the anomaly and assessment of associated complications and for preoperative planning [4,5,6,7]. Several classification systems have been proposed to describe FGTCA. The most recent was published in 2013 by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology/ European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESHRE/ ESGE) [8]

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