83 MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING STUDIES IN COARCTATION OF THE AORTA AND THE MARFAN SYNDROME

Abstract

ECG-gated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies were done on 8 children with coarctation (coarc) of the aorta (Ao), 2-17 yrs., and 8 patients (pts) with Marfan Syndrome (MF), 10-27 yrs. Multiple imaging planes were obtained using a 0.6T super-conducting magnet, and 0.75-1cm thick sections. In the coarc pts, 1 had MRI pre and post surgery, 1 had MRI pre and post balloon angioplasty (BA), 5 had MRI post BA and 1 had MRI pre BA. Precise visualization of the coarc was noted in the 2 pre therapy studies and in the BA pt the MRI coarc diameter correlated with the angiographic diameter. After therapy there was documentation of relief of the coarc on MRI; no aneuryms were seen in the BA pts. In MF, the Ao root, ascending Ao (Asc Ao), Ao arch and descending Ao (Desc Ao) were well delineated. All MF pts had dilation of the Ao root and Asc Ao: none had dilation of the Desc Ao. In both coarc and MF, the sagittal view gave best visualization of the Ao isthmus, Desc Ao and collaterals when present. Asc Ao and arch vessels were best seen on the left anterior oblique and coronal views. Thus, MRI gives excellent visualization of the Asc Ao, Ao arch, and Desc Ao comparable only to invasive angiography. In coarc, MRI allows accurate localization of site of coarc, and non-invasive follow up of treatment. In MF, MRI provides an excellent means of serial evaluation of the aorta.

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