Abstract
MRI is a non-invasive imaging technique that permits the most complete study of aortic disease. It offers morphological, functional, and biochemical information. Technological advances, e.g. the implementation of faster gradients, newer sequences, and ultrafast MR angiography, have led to MRI being the modality of choice for imaging aortic diseases. Conventional ECG-gated spin-echo imaging and cine gradient-echo have earned MRI the reputation of being the ideal tool for evaluating the aorta. Contrast-enhanced 3D MR angiography permits rapid acquisition and multi-planar imaging with minimal dephasing artefacts. Phase-contrast imaging is another technique that enables flow in the great vessels to be evaluated with accurate quantification of peak velocity and forward and regurgitant flow.
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Acknowledgments
The authors thank Pr Hervé Rousseau (CHU Rangueil, Toulouse), Pr Jean-Nicolas Dacher (CHU Rouen), and Dr. Victor Pineda (IDI, Hospital Vall d´Hebron, Barcelona) for their contribution to the iconographic data.
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Appendices
Video 33.4
SSFP cine MR sequence of the thoracic aorta in a patient with a huge aneurysm of the ascending aorta
Video 33.6
Corresponding SSFP cine MR in the same patient with Type A acute aortic dissection and an intimal flap
Video 33.7
SSFP cine MR in the 4-chamber view in a patient with Type A acute aortic dissection and pleural effusion
Video 33.13
3D reconstructed view of MRA of the thoracic aorta in the same patient as in Fig. 33.13
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Evangelista, A., Garot, J. (2010). Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Aortic Disease. In: Zamorano, J.L., Bax, J.J., Rademakers, F.E., Knuuti, J. (eds) The ESC Textbook of Cardiovascular Imaging. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84882-421-8_33
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