[P11-3] 新生児における非造影MRリンパ管造影
Keywords:imaging, lymphatic system, intensive care
【Introduction】Lymphorrhea is a rare but potentially lethal complication that may develop after cardiac surgeries. Postoperative lymphatic leakage can arise anywhere in the lymphatic system, including the thoracic and abdominal cavity. Therefore, detecting the leakage spot is important in treating this condition. Recently, several imaging techniques, such as intranodal lymphography and dynamic contrast magnetic resonance lymphography (DCMRL), have been developed to detect abnormal leakages from the lymphatic system. However, these techniques are sometimes technically challenging, especially in neonates. This study evaluates the usefulness of non-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) lymphography.【Method】 Two premature infants who underwent head MR imaging to evaluate brain injuries were voluntarily included in this study. The imagings of non-contrast MR lymphography were obtained with a free-breathing 3D turbo spin echo with variable flip angle (SPACE) similar to 3D MR cholangiopancreatography. 【Result】In this study, the thoracic ducts were visualized in both infants on T2-weighted images. However, no information about lymph dynamics was provided. Also, reliability was not ascertained in patients with abnormal lymphatic flow.【Conclusion】Recent MR imaging advancements may make it possible to observe the thoracic duct without contrast enhancement techniques. Although unenhanced MR lymphography may be useful as an alternative to DCMRL in infants with intact lymphatic systems, further verification is required to confirm this possibility.