MR imaging of paediatric abdomen

The use of MR imaging (MRI) for the evaluation of the paediatric abdomen is rapidly increasing, thanks to an easier access and to faster sequences. This evolution is welcomed since it helps to reduce the use of other examinations such as body CT with their exposition hazards. The panel of indications is widening. Like in adults, classical indications include the work-up of abdominal tumours, the evaluation of hepato-bilio-pancreatic diseases and uro-MR. Works in progress include the evaluation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other acute abdominal diseases. Still, as the technical part is important, it may be difficult to obtain examinations with the same quality as in adults. Also, there may be a need to sedate young paediatric patients. In this chapter, the main indications will be described and illustrated. The best technique will be detailed. The role of the other imaging techniques will be underlined. © 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.SCOPUS: ch.b