# A Preliminary Exploratory Study on the Application of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐Enhanced MRI for Assessing Gallbladder Ejection Fraction in Cholecystolithiasis Patients

## TL;DR

This study explores using a specific MRI technique to assess gallbladder function in patients with gallstones, showing it can provide both structural and functional insights.

## Contribution

The study introduces Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI as a potential tool for evaluating gallbladder ejection fraction in cholecystolithiasis patients.

## Key findings

- The mean gallbladder ejection fraction was 62.29% ± 25.2% among 81 patients.
- 41 patients showed gallbladder malformations and 20 had abnormal pancreaticobiliary junctions.
- Bile flow was observed in 66 patients, indicating functional assessment capability.

## Abstract

To preliminarily explore the feasibility and clinical implications of using gadoxetic acid disodium (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for assessing the gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) in patients with cholecystolithiasis.

This retrospective analysis encompassed 81 patients with gallstones who underwent Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRI. Gallbladder volume was measured during fasting and at 1 h after a lipid‐rich meal to calculate the GBEF. Two radiologists independently reviewed the images for GBEF, structural anomalies, and biliary patency.

The mean GBEF was 62.29% ± 25.2%. Sixty patients demonstrated a GBEF > 50%, while 21 had a GBEF ≤ 50%. The imaging also facilitated the identification of gallbladder malformations (41/81) and abnormal pancreaticobiliary junctions (20/81). Bile flow into the gallbladder via the cystic duct and into the duodenum was observed in 66 patients.

This exploratory study suggests that Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRI is a feasible modality for simultaneous anatomical evaluation and functional assessment of the GBEF in cholecystolithiasis patients. It provides a comprehensive visualization of biliary dynamics. However, the findings are preliminary, and further validation against standard modalities with controlled study design is required to establish its accuracy and clinical utility.