Abstract
Background and Study Aims: The magnetic resonance endoscope consists of a non-ferrous endoscope with a radiofrequency
receiver coil incorporated into its tip. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy
of endoscopic magnetic resonance imaging for the local staging of esophageal cancer.
Patients and Methods: Prospectively, 15 patients with biopsy-proven cancer of the esophagus (n = 9) or
gastro-esophageal junction (n = 6) underwent endosonography followed by imaging by
the magnetic resonance endoscope. The results of endoscopic magnetic resonance imaging
were assessed blindly, then compared with those of endosonography, which served as
the gold standard.
Results: Endoscopic magnetic resonance imaging of transmural tumor invasion agreed with ultrasonography
in 11/15 cases and of nodal state in 12/15 cases. Endoscopic magnetic resonance images
were inadequate in four cases as a result of motion artifacts.
Conclusions: Endoscopic magnetic resonance imaging of esophageal cancer diagnoses local staging
that is comparable to endosonography. In future, the combination of endoscopic and
conventional magnetic resonance scanning may provide comprehensive staging of esophageal
cancer.
