Hemodynamic changes in the portal vein with age: evaluation using four-dimensional flow MRI

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Liver function and structure undergo gradual changes with aging.
• Understanding age-related hemodynamic alterations in the portal vein (PV) is crucial for assessing liver health in aging populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate age-related hemodynamic changes in the portal vein (PV) of healthy adults.
• To identify the age at which PV hemodynamic parameters peak and the rate of decline with aging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized four-dimensional (4D) flow MRI on a 3-T system to acquire data from 120 healthy adults (aged 30-69).
• Subjects were categorized into four age groups (30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69).
• Analyzed hemodynamic parameters including area, velocity, and flow volume in the main PV, employing ANOVA and ANCOVA for statistical comparisons and quadratic modeling for age-related changes.

Main Results:

• Significantly lower average area, velocity, and flow volume in the oldest group (60-69 years) compared to younger groups.
• Portal vein (PV) hemodynamic parameters peaked around 43-44 years of age.
• Rates of age-related hemodynamic changes were negatively correlated with age, with significant decreases observed after age 60.

Conclusions:

• Portal vein (PV) hemodynamics in healthy adults exhibit a peak in mid-adulthood (around 43-44 years).
• Significant age-related decline in PV blood flow volume and velocity occurs after age 60.
• Findings highlight the impact of aging on portal vein hemodynamics, providing a reference for clinical assessments.