MRI based evaluation of carcinoma gallbladder using apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI)

Abstract

Background Carcinoma of the gallbladder is a malignant neoplasm, which is associated with a poor prognosis due to its often-asymptomatic nature and late-stage diagnosis. Non-invasive imaging techniques play a key role in the early detection and characterization of gallbladder carcinoma. This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of the utility of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) mapping in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of carcinoma of the gallbladder. The primary objective of this research was to investigate the exact diagnostic accuracy and potential clinical applications of DWI and ADC in assessing carcinoma of the gallbladder and related tumour aggressiveness. A systematic review of existing literature was conducted to establish a foundation for this study with efforts to acquire relevant imaging data. The results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of DWI and ADC in the detection of carcinoma of the gallbladder when compared to conventional MRI sequences. These advanced imaging techniques hold promise in increasing the accuracy of diagnosis, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and more informed clinical decision making. The potential of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) mapping in the evaluation of gallbladder cancer using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is thoroughly analysed in this thesis. Methods A descriptive prospective study will be done at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi, involving 20 patients with clinically suspected carcinoma gallbladder, who are referred to the department of Radiodiagnosis. These patients will be subjected to study-purposive sampling. Conclusion After an appropriate statistical analysis, we expect to assess the role of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) mapping in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of carcinoma of the gallbladder. CTRI registration This trial has been submitted to Clinical Trials Registry-India (CTRI) for Review. Registration Number: REF/2023/09/072780 Registration date:01/05/2023 URL of trial: https://www.ctri.nic.in/