Assessment of thoracic aortic dimensions in an experimental setting: comparison of different unenhanced magnetic resonance angiography techniques with electrocardiogram-gated computed tomography angiography for possible application in the pediatric population

Usefulness of electrocardiogram mA modulation during the electrocardiogram-gated CT scan in paediatrics with high heart rate for different helical pitch: a phantom-based assessment study

We investigated the effect of electrocardiographic (ECG) mA-modulation of ECG-gated scans of computed tomography (CTA) on radiation dose and image noise at high heart rates (HR) above 100 bpm between helical pitches (HP) 0.16 and 0.24. ECG mA-modulation range during ECG-gated CTA is 50-100 mA, the phase setting is 40-60% and the scan range is 90 mm for clinical data during HR for 90, 120 and 150 bpm. Radiation dose and image noise in Housfield units are measured for CT equipment during HR for 90, 120 and 150 bpm between HP 0.16 and 0.24. ECG mA-modulation, dose reduction ratio for HR 90, 120 and 150 bpm are 19.1, 13.4 and 8.7% at HP 0.16 and 17.1, 13.3 and 7.7% at HP 0.24, respectively. No significant differences were observed in image noise between both HP. Dose reductions of 8-24% are achieved with ECG mA-modulation during ECG-gated CCTA scan, which is beneficial even in high HR more than 100 bpm.

3D morphometry using automated aortic segmentation in native MR angiography: an alternative to contrast enhanced MRA?

INTRODUCTION

Native-MR angiography (N-MRA) is considered an imaging alternative to contrast enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) for patients with renal insufficiency. Lower intraluminal contrast in N-MRA often leads to failure of the segmentation process in commercial algorithms. This study introduces an in-house 3D model-based segmentation approach used to compare both sequences by automatic 3D lumen segmentation, allowing for evaluation of differences of aortic lumen diameters as well as differences in length comparing both acquisition techniques at every possible location.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Sixteen healthy volunteers underwent 1.5-T-MR Angiography (MRA). For each volunteer, two different MR sequences were performed, CE-MRA: gradient echo Turbo FLASH sequence and N-MRA: respiratory-and-cardiac-gated, T2-weighted 3D SSFP. Datasets were segmented using a 3D model-based ellipse-fitting approach with a single seed point placed manually above the celiac trunk. The segmented volumes were manually cropped from left subclavian artery to celiac trunk to avoid error due to side branches. Diameters, volumes and centerline length were computed for intraindividual comparison. For statistical analysis the Wilcoxon-Signed-Ranked-Test was used.

RESULTS

Average centerline length obtained based on N-MRA was 239.0±23.4 mm compared to 238.6±23.5 mm for CE-MRA without significant difference (P=0.877). Average maximum diameter obtained based on N-MRA was 25.7±3.3 mm compared to 24.1±3.2 mm for CE-MRA (P<0.001). In agreement with the difference in diameters, volumes obtained based on N-MRA (100.1±35.4 cm(3)) were consistently and significantly larger compared to CE-MRA (89.2±30.0 cm(3)) (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

3D morphometry shows highly similar centerline lengths for N-MRA and CE-MRA, but systematically higher diameters and volumes for N-MRA.

Magnetic resonance angiography of the pediatric abdomen and pelvis: techniques and imaging findings

Although traditional catheter-based angiography has been the gold standard for pediatric abdominal and pelvic vascular imaging for the past several decades, advances in magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) have made it a viable alternative. MRA offers several advantages in that it is noninvasive, can be performed without ionizing radiation, and does not necessarily rely on contrast administration. The ability of modern MRA techniques to define variant vascular anatomy and detect vascular disease may obviate traditional angiography in some patients.

The role of cardiovascular magnetic resonance in pediatric congenital heart disease

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) has expanded its role in the diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease (CHD) and acquired heart disease in pediatric patients. Ongoing technological advancements in both data acquisition and data presentation have enabled CMR to be integrated into clinical practice with increasing understanding of the advantages and limitations of the technique by pediatric cardiologists and congenital heart surgeons. Importantly, the combination of exquisite 3D anatomy with physiological data enables CMR to provide a unique perspective for the management of many patients with CHD. Imaging small children with CHD is challenging, and in this article we will review the technical adjustments, imaging protocols and application of CMR in the pediatric population.

Advances in magnetic resonance (2008)

Current advances in magnetic resonance, as a diagnostic modality, are discussed in the context of publications from Investigative Radiology during 2007 and 2008. The articles relating to this topic, published during the past 2 years, are reviewed by anatomic region. The discussion concludes with a consideration of magnetic resonance contrast media, focusing on studies published in the journal, and examining in particular the potential impact of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.