Magnetic resonance imaging of the normal female pelvis.

Abstract

9 healthy volunteers were examined by magnetic resonance imaging in order to describe the anatomy of the normal female genital tract as seen by this technique. The visualization of the bony and pelvic skeleton and the muscles surrounding these structures is excellent. Due to high contrast resolution relatively small structures like the femoral blood vessels can be positively identified. Imaging of the small bowel is disappointing. Visualization of the rectum and sigmoid colon is relatively good. In the uterine wall three distinct layers can be identified. An interpretation of the origin of these layers based on comparison with macroscopic and microscopic examination of sections of uterine tissue is given. Further research is needed to demonstrate possible cyclic changes in the appearance of the uterus. The ovaries could not be identified with certainty.