Non‐enhanced MR lymphography of the thoracic duct: improved visualization following ingestion of a high fat meal–initial experience

Summary Purpose The objective of this study was to compare the clarity of magnetic resonance lymphography ( MRL ) images of the thoracic duct ( TD ) obtained from subjects following an overnight fast with those obtained from the same subjects after ingestion of a high fat meal. Methods Nineteen healthy volunteers were included in this study. TD images were acquired on a 3·0T MRI system with the imaging sequence of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. TD MRL images were obtained from subjects following an overnight fast and from the same subjects 3–4 h after ingestion of a high fat meal. Images were displayed in maximum intensity projection format and degree of visualization was evaluated using a scoring system. Results The mean TD score obtained following an overnight fast was significantly lower than the mean TD score obtained 3–4 h after ingestion of a high fat meal ( P <0·05). Conclusion The clarity of TD MRL images is improved if subjects have ingested a high fat meal 3–4 h prior to examination.