Magnetization Transfer BOOST Noncontrast Angiography Improves Pulmonary Vein Imaging in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Abstract

Abstract
Background
Cardiac MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Gadolinium-based contrast agents are often needed to overcome flow-related and off-resonance artifacts that can impair the quality of conventional noncontrast 3D imaging. As serial imaging is often required in CHD, the development of robust noncontrast 3D MRI techniques is desirable.

Purpose
To assess the clinical utility of noncontrast enhanced magnetization transfer and inversion recovery prepared 3D free-breathing sequence (MTC-BOOST) compared to conventional 3D whole heart imaging in patients with CHD.

Study type
Prospective, image quality.

Population
A total of 27 adult patients (44% female, mean age 30.9?±?14.8?years) with CHD.

Field Strength/Sequence
A 1.5?T; free-breathing 3D MTC-BOOST sequence.

Assessment
MTC-BOOST was compared to diaphragmatic navigator-gated, noncontrast T2 prepared 3D whole-heart imaging sequence (T2prep-3DWH) for comparison of vessel dimensions, lumen-to-myocardium contrast ratio (CR), and image quality (vessel wall sharpness and presence and type of artifacts) assessed by two experienced cardiologists on a 5-point scale.

Statistical Tests
Mann–Whitney test, paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Bland–Altman plots. P?