MR Imaging Features of Intestinal Phytobezoar

Purpose The aim of this study is to explore MR features and imaging mechanism of intestinal phytobezoar and to deepen the understanding of intestinal phytobezoar. Methods Eighteen cases of intestinal phytobezoar (including 15 cases in small intestine and 3 cases in colon) underwent MR examinations. Summing-up and analyzing MR features combinded with intraoperative findings. Results All 18 cases of intestinal phytobezoar showed irregular shape low signal on T2-weighted image, which was named coke sign in this study. And on T1-weighted image showed as follows: (i) 12 cases of intestinal phytobezoar (11 in small intestine and 1 in ascending colon) showed internal low signal and peripheral ring-like high signal, which was named empty shell sign in this study, (ii) 4 cases of intestinal phytobezoar (3 in jejunum and 1 in ileum) showed mixed slightly higher signal, and (iii) 2 cases of intestinal phytobezoar (both in colon) showed slightly low signal. Conclusions Intestinal phytobezoar presented coke sign on T2-weighted image and complicated signal, more often empty shell sign on T1-weighted image. Correct diagnosis of an intestinal phytobezoar has an instructive value in selection of treatment strategy.