[Magnetic resonance imaging of the left ventricle in healthy subjects: normal values for morphology, function,...

To define normal values of MRI parameters related to cardiac morphology, function, perfusion, and delayed enhancement of the left ventricle and to analyze differences based on age and sex.

We used 1.5T and 3T MRI scanners to analyze 18 healthy subjects ranging in age from 15 to 77 years old. Dedicated image processing software (Cardio-MR, View Forum, Philips Medical Systems) was used to evaluate morphological and functional parameters (end-diastolic and end-systolic volume, stroke volume, ejection fraction, cardiac output, wall mass, wall thickness, wall thickening, wall motion), perfusion parameters (relative maximum upslope, relative maximum enhancement), and delayed enhancement (percentage of late hyperenhancement). Student's t-test was used for statistical analyses.

Sex differences were observed: end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, stroke volume, and wall mass were significantly higher in men and the ejection fraction was significantly larger in women. Healthy subjects over 45 years of age had significantly greater wall thickness.

We report cardiac MRI reference values for morphological, functional, perfusion, and delayed enhancement parameters. Sex and age should be taken into account as important variables related to some of these parameters.