Objective:To analyze the appearances of multiple MRI sequences and the accuracy of the assessment of resectability in caput pancreatic carcinoma.Methods:MRI appearances were analyzed retrospectively in nineteen patients with histopathology or clinical examination proved carcinoma in the head of pancreas

and the assessment of resectability was compared with the findings of surgical and histopathology.Plain MRI sequences included:coronal scanning with T2-weighted 2D true-fast imaging with steady-state free precession

axial scanning using T1-weighted fast low angle single shot with fat suppression

T2-weighted half-Fourier single shot turbo spin-echo with fat suppression

and MRI cholangiopancreatography.The contrast-enhanced scanning procedures were axial scanning using T1-weighted 3D volume interpolated breathhold examination with fat suppression

the imaging were obtained during arterial phase

portal vein and delayed phase scanning.Results:Of 19 lesions in these patients

17 lesions showed hypo-intensity on T1WI of plain sequences

and normal pancreats showed hyper-intensity.15 lesions showed hyper-intensity or immingled-intensity on T2WI

one appended with cyst.During pancreatic arterial phase

18 lesions did not show enhancement

contrasting with the normal pancreas showing evidently enhancement

so the borderline of carcinoma was clear.During portal vein and delayed phase

17 lesions showed inhomogeneous slight enhancement

peripheral vas of pancreas in 17 cases were contacted or involved by tumor.3 transfer lesions in hepar showed slight enhancement.13 cases showed dilatation at both common bile duct and pancreatic duct as a typical double duct sign on MRCP.According to the assessment of MRI

7 cases could be resected

and 12 cases could not be resected.The assessment of 14 cases agreed with the surgical and histopathological findings.Conclusion:Carcinoma of pancreatic head is shown with many features on multiple MRI sequences.MRI examination has a high accuracy for the diagnosis and the assessment of resectability in carcinoma of pancreatic head

which is helpful in choosing project of therapy.