Comparison of non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography and contrast-enhanced CT angiography in the diagnosis of renal artery stenosis

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA) and non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in patients with renal artery stenosis (RAS). Methods Sixty-six patients with suspected RAS hospitalized in Yanzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Ji’ning Medical College from May 2017 to April 2019 were selected. All patients were examined by contrast-enhanced CTA first, and then were examined by non-contrast-enhanced MRA. The examination results from the two methods were compared. Results Sixty-six patients completed the examination successfully. The image qualities of contrast-enhanced CTA from all patients were grade 1, and image qualities of non-contrast-enhanced MRA were grade 1 in 47 cases and grade 2 in 19 cases. Both CTA and MRA showed 138 aortic arteries in the renal artery and branches. CTA and MRA had good consistency in the display of renal artery, branches and the degree of RAS(P>0.05). Conclusions Non-contrast-enhanced MRA is effective in the diagnosis of RAS, and is completely non-invasive. The quality of renal artery imaging of non-contrast-enhanced MRA is high, so it has values of popularization. Key words: Computed tomography angiography; Magnetic resonance angiography; Renal artery stenosis