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Open Access 01-12-2023 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging | Educational Review

MRI anatomy of the rectum: key concepts important for rectal cancer staging and treatment planning

Authors: Nino Bogveradze, Petur Snaebjornsson, Brechtje A. Grotenhuis, Baukelien van Triest, Max J. Lahaye, Monique Maas, Geerard L. Beets, Regina G. H. Beets-Tan, Doenja M. J. Lambregts

Published in: Insights into Imaging | Issue 1/2023

Abstract

A good understanding of the MRI anatomy of the rectum and its surroundings is pivotal to ensure high-quality diagnostic evaluation and reporting of rectal cancer. With this pictorial review, we aim to provide an image-based overview of key anatomical concepts essential for treatment planning, response evaluation and post-operative assessment. These concepts include the cross-sectional anatomy of the rectal wall in relation to T-staging; differences in staging and treatment between anal and rectal cancer; landmarks used to define the upper and lower boundaries of the rectum; the anatomy of the pelvic floor and anal canal, the mesorectal fascia, peritoneum and peritoneal reflection; and guides to help discern different pelvic lymph node stations on MRI to properly stage regional and non-regional rectal lymph node metastases. Finally, this review will highlight key aspects of post-treatment anatomy, including the assessment of radiation-induced changes and the evaluation of the post-operative pelvis after different surgical resection and reconstruction techniques.

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Title: MRI anatomy of the rectum: key concepts important for rectal cancer staging and treatment planning
Authors: Nino Bogveradze
Petur Snaebjornsson
Brechtje A. Grotenhuis
Baukelien van Triest
Max J. Lahaye
Monique Maas
Geerard L. Beets
Regina G. H. Beets-Tan
Doenja M. J. Lambregts
Publication date: 01-12-2023
Publisher: Springer Vienna
Keywords: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Rectal Cancer
Rectal Cancer
Published in: Insights into Imaging / Issue 1/2023
Electronic ISSN: 1869-4101
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13244-022-01348-8

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MRI anatomy of the rectum: key concepts important for rectal cancer staging and treatment planning

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