MR-guided biopsies with a newly designed cordless coil in an open low-field system: initial findings

Eur Radiol. 2006 Sep;16(9):2044-50. doi: 10.1007/s00330-005-0069-1. Epub 2005 Dec 13.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and safety of MR-guided biopsies with a newly designed cordless coil in an open low-field magnetic resonance (MR) system. Eleven patients were biopsied using a low-field system (0.2 T, Magnetom Concerto, Siemens) by using the new cordless coil (Siemens). The biopsies were performed in different organ systems [liver (n = 7), abdomen (n = 1), shoulder (n = 1), pelvis (n = 1) and hip (n = 1)]. The procedures were guided using T1-weighted FLASH (fast low-angle shot) sequences. The lesions were biopsied using the coaxial technique through a 15-gauge puncture needle with a 16-gauge biopsy handy. Coil handling, image quality and complications were evaluated. Imaging quality and visualization of the lesions were optimal up to a penetration depth of 9 cm. In all cases the biopsy procedures were successfully performed with MR guidance without any complications. Pathological findings revealed seven cases of malignant tissue and four cases of non-malignant tissue. The use of the cordless coil allows improved patient access during the biopsy and an improved handling of the coil system. MR-guided biopsy using the novel cordless coil system can be performed safely and precisely with easy handling of the coil. This coil concept, however, is restricted to special indications.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Biopsy, Needle* / methods
  • Bone and Bones / pathology
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Humans
  • Liver / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging* / instrumentation
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging* / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Phantoms, Imaging
  • Whole Body Imaging