Magnetic resonance imaging is the optimal modality for pelvic imaging. It is based on T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) sequences allowing uterine and vaginal cavity assessment as well as rectal evaluation. Anatomical depiction of these structures may benefit from distension, and conditions either developing inside the lumen of cavities or coming from the outside may then be better delineated and localized. The need for distension, either rectal or vaginal, and the way to conduct it are matters of debate, depending on indication for which the MR examination is being conducted. In this review, we discuss advantages and potential drawbacks of this technique, based on literature and our experience, in the evaluation of various gynecological and rectal diseases.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging* ; Pelvic Organ Prolapse ; Rectal Diseases

The perihepatic space is frequently involved in a spectrum of diseases, including intrahepatic lesions extending to the liver capsule and disease conditions involving adjacent organs extending to the perihepatic space or spreading thanks to the communication from intraperitoneal or extraperitoneal sites through the hepatic ligaments. Lesions resulting from the dissemination of peritoneal processes may also affect the perihepatic space. Here we discuss how to assess the perihepatic origin of a lesion and describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of normal structures and fluids that may be abnormally located in the perihepatic space. We then review and illustrate the MRI findings present in cases of perihepatic infectious, tumor-related, and miscellaneous conditions. Finally, we highlight the value of MRI over computed tomography.

The perihepatic space is frequently involved in a spectrum of diseases, including intrahepatic lesions extending to the liver capsule and disease conditions involving adjacent organs extending to the perihepatic space or spreading thanks to the communication from intraperitoneal or extraperitoneal sites through the hepatic ligaments. Lesions resulting from the dissemination of peritoneal processes may also affect the perihepatic space. Here we discuss how to assess the perihepatic origin of a lesion and describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of normal structures and fluids that may be abnormally located in the perihepatic space. We then review and illustrate the MRI findings present in cases of perihepatic infectious, tumor-related, and miscellaneous conditions. Finally, we highlight the value of MRI over computed tomography.