Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 29, 2026
07:42
An Image Guided Transapical Mitral Valve Leaflet Puncture Model of Controlled Volume Overload from Mitral Regurgitation in the Rat
Published on: May 19, 2020
Visualization of aortic valve leaflets using black blood MRI
A E Arai1, F H Epstein, K E Bove
1Laboratory of Cardiac Energetics, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1061, USA.
Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging : JMRI
|November 5, 1999
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can now visualize aortic valve leaflets in most patients, aiding in the detection of conditions like bicuspid aortic valves. This advancement improves diagnosis for valvular heart disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Direct visualization of heart valve leaflets using MRI has been challenging.
- Cardiac MRI is typically used for myocardial volume and mass assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of visualizing aortic valve leaflets using a specific MRI technique.
- To assess the diagnostic potential of MRI for aortic valve abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- 120 patients undergoing cardiac MRI were studied.
- A 1.5 T scanner with enhanced gradients and a cardiac phased-array coil was used.
- A double inversion recovery fast spin-echo sequence acquired short-axis images during breath-hold.
Main Results:
- Aortic valve leaflets were visualized in 85% of studies (102/120).
- Seven cases of abnormal aortic valves (bicuspid or thickened) were identified.
- Signal-to-noise ratio of leaflets was significantly higher than surrounding blood (14±5 vs 7±4).
Conclusions:
- MRI can successfully visualize aortic valve leaflets in a high proportion of patients.
- This technique shows promise for diagnosing valvular heart disease and warrants further investigation.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
01:21Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, or CMRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that employs a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create precise images of the heart and arteries. It provides comprehensive information about cardiac anatomy, function, perfusion, and tissue characterization without ionizing radiation.IndicationsCMRI diagnoses various heart conditions, including tissue damage from heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis, aortic issues (tears, aneurysms,...
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning is an advanced cardiac imaging technique that utilizes CT technology, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast, to produce accurate cross-sectional virtual slices of specific areas of the heart, coronary circulation, and major blood vessels such as the aorta, pulmonary veins, and arteries. The computer processes these slices to generate three-dimensional images. Multidetector CT (MDCT) is a rapid form of CT scanning that captures multiple slices...
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
01:19Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
DefinitionRenal angiography, also known as renal arteriography, is an imaging technique used to obtain a comprehensive view of blood flow and the vascular structure of blood vessels in the kidneys and surrounding areas.PurposeRenal angiography detects blood vessel abnormalities in the kidneys, such as aneurysms, stenosis, thrombosis, vascular tumors, and renal artery stenosis. It evaluates kidney function and guides interventional treatments like angioplasty or stent placement.Pre-Procedure...