Assessment of pathological prognostic factors in rectal cancer: comparison of DWI, IVIM, and DKI

Motivation: The prognosis of rectal cancer (RC), depends on pathological prognostic factors. Despite the contributions of MRI, accurate preoperative prediction of these factors remains challenging. Goal(s): Evaluate the values of DWI, IVIM, and DKI in predicting RC’s pathological prognostic factors. Approach: In 162 rectal cancer patients, we compared DWI, IVIM, and DKI MRI techniques to predict EMVI, LNM, and histological differentiation, analyzing correlations with histological data. Results: MK was identified as a powerful predictor, especially for histological differentiation and LNM. The combine of MK+MD exhibited robust potential to predict EMVI, highlighting the diagnostic values of these models for rectal cancer prognosis. Impact: This research enhances MRI's predictive capabilities for critical rectal cancer prognostic factors, potentially refining treatment planning and improving the prognosis of patients.