Correlation between surgical findings and magnetic resonance imaging of deep infiltrating endometriosis

In this review, images during surgical excision of Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE) were correlated to preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings. MRI is known to be the best tool for mapping DIE, it displays a high accuracy in the diagnosis and the characterization of endometriosis lesions. Recent studies showed also that MRI findings can be correlated to the length of operating time, to the duration of hospital stay, and to the risk of voiding problems. In this article we emphasize on the importance of having an experienced radiologist that has the ability of detecting adhesions and superficial peritoneal lesions, a value that was underestimated in previous studies. DIE presents on MRI as an intermediate signal intensity on T1-weighted images, hypointense signal on T2-weighted images, and homo- or heterogeneous enhancement after intravenous gadolinium injection. Preoperative MRI findings help doctors to elaborate a tailored therapeutic plan for each patient depending on the clinical context (Fertility preservation, IVF, complete surgical excisions). Most importantly correct investigation and accurate description of small lesions enhance surgical planification and adequate information of the patients