Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a medical imaging technique. It uses magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the biliary and pancreatic ducts non-invasively. This procedure can be used to determine whether gallstones are lodged in any of the ducts surrounding the gallbladder.
Uses.
MRCP is used to visualize the biliary and pancreatic ducts in a non-invasive manner. It is used to diagnose gallstones. It can also diagnose choledochal cysts very reliably. This is useful for visualisation, making other surgeries easier.
Technique.
MRCP makes use of heavily T2-weighted MRI pulse sequences. These sequences show high signal in static or slow moving fluids within the gallbladder, biliary ducts and pancreatic duct, with low signal of surrounding tissue. Secretin is also given to a patient to increase ductal compliance, making imaging easier.
Comparison to other techniques.
In the diagnosis of pancreatic disorders, MRCP is a much less invasive investigation when compared to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Although both techniques can image the ductal system in detail, MRCP also allows imaging of the surrounding parenchyma. In a study from 2008, 269 patients undergoing both ERCP and MRCP showed comparable results between the two techniques.
History.
It was introduced by Wallner in 1991.
See also.
Magnetic resonance myelography