Synopsis

DWI reflects changes in water mobility caused by interactions with cell membranes, macromolecules, and alterations to the tissue environment. It enables quantitative assessment of tissue diffusivity based on the apparent diffusion coefficient. Advances in image quality have made DWI a routinely implemented clinical protocol for the pancreas, as it can be performed relatively quickly and has excellent contrast resolution without the administration of contrast agents. DWI is a promising technique for the evaluation of pancreas tumors, including detection, characterization, monitoring treatment response, and prediction of patient prognosis. Its role in the above mentioned clinical settings will be discussed.