Aim: To assess a clinical value and feasibility of the magnetic resonance imaging of the bowel with mannitol oral preparation due to the known or suspected Crohn’s disease (CD). Material and methods: 50 consecutive patients with suspected CD underwent the examination after fractional drinking of 2000 ml of 2.5% mannitol water solution and after application of spasmolytics. The MR examination protocol composed of bright lumen sequences (T2 w. trueFISP) and dynamic postcontrast dark lumen sequences (T1 w. FLASH 3D – VIBE) in arterial, early and late portal phase. Results: Side effects of the oral administration of mannitol were noted in 2 cases (4%), no serious complication was present. The sufficient evaluable distension of the bowel loops was present in 92%. Active CD was found in 21 cases (42%), non-active CD in 10 cases ( 20%, incl. 2 cases of the stenosis – 4%), ulcerous colitis in 3 cases (6%), enteritis in one case (2%) and finding was normal in 15 cases (30%). Conclusion: The sufficient contrast and space resolution and the radiation-free procedures are the main reason that MR enterography due to the present or suspected CD is clinical valuable and feasible imaging tool and should be used as the prime imaging modality in this indication.

        Key words: magnetic resonance imaging – MR enterography – Crohn’s disease