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Published on: February 9, 2016
Real-time magnetic resonance imaging-guided coronary catheterization in swine
Reed A Omary1, Jordin D Green, Brian E Schirf
1Department of Radiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Ill, USA. romary@radiology.northwestern.edu
Background:
We tested the hypothesis that real-time magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can guide coronary artery catheterization in swine via a percutaneous femoral artery approach.
Methods And Results:
In 12 pigs, we accessed femoral arteries percutaneously. We used 6- or 7-French coronary Judkins catheters filled with dilute 4% gadolinium (Gd) contrast agent and coaxially inserted 0.030-inch diameter active guidewires as endovascular devices. For catheter tracking, we used a 2-dimensional (2D) inversion recovery-prepared spoiled gradient echo sequence at a temporal resolution of 7 frames/s. For guidewire tracking, we used 2D steady-state free precession imaging at a temporal resolution of 9 frames/s. Coronary artery catheterization under MRI guidance was successful in 12/12 pigs. Successful coronary catheterization was verified by obtaining MR angiographic images after direct catheter-based injections of dilute Gd.
Conclusions:
Real-time MRI-guided catheterization of coronary arteries in swine is feasible via a percutaneous femoral artery approach. Selective coronary MR angiography can then be performed with dilute contrast agent injections.
