To assess the effectiveness of super delayed phase (SDP) imaging in enhancing liver contrast in patients with chronic liver disease and to evaluate its impact on nodule visibility.
Key Findings:
Extended imaging (60-120 min post-contrast) improved liver contrast in patients with initially poor LSC.
Patients with Child-Pugh class B or C showed significant benefits from SDP imaging.
SDP images enhanced the visibility of lesions that were previously obscured due to inadequate liver contrast.
Interpretation:
Super delayed phase imaging can significantly improve liver contrast in patients with chronic liver disease, potentially aiding in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma and other lesions.
Limitations:
Single-center study may limit generalizability.
Retrospective design may introduce selection bias.
Variability in imaging protocols and timing across different facilities.
Conclusion:
Super delayed phase imaging is a promising approach to enhance liver contrast in gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI, particularly in patients with compromised liver function.
International study of more than 19,000 patients finds substantial differences in radiation exposure from coronary artery disease imaging across modalities, regions, and income levels.
