Functional MR imaging of the uterus.

Recent developments in MR imaging techniques have enabled the functional assessment of the uterus. Cine MR imaging is a useful tool for evaluating uterine kinematic functions derived from myometrial contractility, and for investigating the alteration of uterine contractility in a variety of conditions and gynecologic disorders. Diffusion-weighted imaging can demonstrate abnormal signal in pathologic foci based on differences in molecular diffusion, and could provide useful information in evaluating malignant conditions. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging has the potential to improve tumor detection and local staging, and quantitative information may be useful for both monitoring therapeutic effects and predicting outcome. These state-of-the-art functional MR imaging techniques are beneficial for elucidating various uterine conditions when used appropriately, and the findings further provide the basis of future MR imaging investigations.