Emerging Clinical Applications of 4D Flow MR in the Heart and Aorta

AbstractPurpose of ReviewReview the current literature, focusing on potential clinical applications of time-resolved 3-dimensional phase contrast imaging (4D flow) in the thorax.Recent FindingsMagnetic resonance imaging has become an important diagnostic tool in the evaluation of the heart and great vessels, complimenting echocardiography in routine clinical practice. Advances in 4D flow now allow for comprehensive modeling of blood flow in the thorax in a single ECG-gated and respiratory-gated volumetric acquisition. 4D Flow modeling of preferential flow through shunts, eccentric jets related to valvular disease, helical flow in aneurysms, shear wall stress around atherosclerotic plaque, and pulse wave pressures within the aorta is now possible, and may lead to improved prognostication and management of complex cardiovascular pathology.SummaryThe physiologic data obtained with 4D flow MR has provided new insight into a wide range of cardiovascular pathology, from congenital heart disease, bicuspid aortopathy, and aortic coarction to aortic aneurysms, atherosclerotic plaque, and aortic dissection.

Source: Current Radiology Reports - October 11, 2016 Category: Radiology Source Type: research