Usefulness of MR-seminography using Gd-DTPA in intermediate magnetic field MRI equipment

T(2)-weighted fast advanced spin-echo imaging with gadolinium (hereinafter referred to as "MR-seminography") of the genital tract was evaluated for its usefulness in non-invasive investigation into the morphology of these organs. Twenty healthy male volunteers who are confirmed as free of genital tract obstruction were entered into the study. The genital tract was imaged using the 0.5 T MRI system by fast advanced spin echo (FASE) method. Based on quantitative evaluation, visibility evaluation, and the visualization of the genital tract in each subject, the contrast-enhanced images were assessed in comparison with those at pre-injection of the contrast agent by four specialists. Also examined were the morphology of the seminal vesicle according to age group using "Ishigami-Mori's classification," and the age angle of the main ducts. MR-seminography produced high contrast images and revealed a significantly decreased signal in the pelvic organs under investigation. In the analysis of individual subjects, the area from the proximal portion of the vas deferens to the ampulla and the seminal vesicles was on the whole well visualized except for the distal portion of the vas deferens and the ejaculatory duct. With regard to seminal vesicle morphology, type II was predominant. The age angle showed a trend toward widening with age. MR-seminography is non-invasive, useful, and therefore a highly recommended procedure for observation of the morphology in the area from the proximal portion of the vas deferens to the seminal vesicle.