A decade of multi-modality PET and MR imaging in abdominal oncology

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate trends observed in a decade of published research on multimodality PET(/CT)+MR imaging in abdominal oncology, and to explore how these trends are reflected by the use of multimodality imaging performed at our institution. Methods: First, we performed a literature search (2009- 2018) including all papers published on the multimodality combination of PET(/CT) and MRI in abdominal oncology. Retrieved papers were categorized according to a structured labelling system, including study design and outcome, cancer and lesion type under investigation and PET-tracer type. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics and evolutions over time were plotted graphically. Second, we performed a descriptive analysis of the numbers of MRI, PET/CT and multimodality PET/CT+MRI combinations (performed within a ≤14 days interval) performed during a similar time span at our institution. Results: Published research papers involving multimodality PET(/CT)+MRI combinations showed an impressive increase in numbers, both for retrospective combinations of PET/CT and MRI, as well as hybrid PET/ MRI. Main areas of research included new PET-tracers, visual PET(/CT)+MRI assessment for staging, and (semi-) quantitative analysis of PET-parameters compared to or combined with MRI-parameters as predictive biomarkers. In line with literature, we also observed a vast increase in numbers of multimodality PET/CT+MRI imaging in our institutional data. Conclusions: The tremendous increase in published literature on multimodality imaging, reflected by our institutional data, shows the continuously growing interest in comprehensive multivariable imaging evaluations to guide oncological practice.