Right ventricular outflow tract imaging with CT and MRI: Part 1, Morphology

MRI and CT have become the ideal methods for assessing the complex morphology of the conotruncal region, including the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). Detailed information about the embryology and anatomy of the RVOT provides a better understanding of the spectrum of diseases of this region and helps to narrow the differential diagnoses of abnormalities involving this important structure. In this review, we focus on the role of CT and MRI to evaluate morphology in relation to developmental malformation of the RVOT.

A spectrum of conotruncal anomalies with abnormally positioned great arteries may arise from a perturbation of RVOT formation. Complications after surgery are common, and many patients need follow-up imaging for diagnosis and surgical planning. In this regard, the spectrum of diseases, differential diagnoses, and postoperative findings are briefly described. With CT and MRI, the relationship of the RVOT to critical structures, such as the coronary arteries, can be revealed.