MRI and Ultrasound Fusion Imaging for Cervical Cancer

Abstract

Background: Evaluating locoregional extension of cervical cancer is a key step in patient management. This study evaluated the feasibility of fusion imaging - a combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with real-time high-resolution ultrasound (US) - to diagnose cervical cancer and its extension.

Patients and methods: This prospective bi-center study included 13 women who underwent a 1.5-T MRI protocol including at least one T2-weighted plane. The results of imaging fusion were then compared with US and MRI results alone.

Results: Cervical cancer was detected as a hyperechogenic hypervascularized lesion. Parametrial extension was detected by exploration of the stromal ring and the use of color Doppler mode in fusion imaging, and characterized by visualization of a vascular bridge.

Conclusion: Fusion imaging could be used as a complementary technique for MRI to enhance diagnostic performance for cervical cancer lesions. While MRI remains the reference, real-time fusion imaging could improve its characterization and detect parametrial infiltration.

Keywords: Cervical cancer; fusion imaging; parametrial infiltration; pelvic MRI; ultrasound.