Magnetic resonance imaging template to standardize reporting of anal fistulas

Tech Coloproctol. 2021 Mar;25(3):333-337. doi: 10.1007/s10151-020-02384-6. Epub 2021 Jan 5.

Abstract

Anal fistula (AF) is a common referral to colorectal surgeons. Management remains challenging and sometimes controversial. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly performed in initial workup for AF. However, reports often lack key information for guiding treatment strategies. It has been shown that with structured radiology reports, there is less missing information. We present a structured MRI template report including 8 key descriptors of anal fistulas, whose effectiveness and acceptability are being assessed in a cross-sectional study (NCT04541238).

Keywords: Anal fistula imaging; Anal fistulas; Endoanal ultrasonography; Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging.

MeSH terms

  • Anal Canal*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Rectal Fistula* / diagnostic imaging

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT04541238