Value of contrast-enhanced 3D magnetic resonance angiography of the renal arteries

Abstract

To determine the value of gadolinium-enhanced, three-dimensional breath-hold Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) in the assessment of the aorta and renal arteries in comparison to conventional arteriography (CA). 49 patients were evaluated with both CA and 3D MRA. 0.3 mmol/kg BW gadolinium-DTPA was administered intravenously in a bolus, using an automated injector. A test bolus method was used for timing of the bolus and beginning of the data acquisition. The intraarterial CA was used as the gold standard. MRA-based assessment of renal artery stenosis was identical with CA in 31 of 45 stenoses (68.8%). Sensitivity and specificity for assessment of renal arterial disease by MRA were 84% and 96%; for clinically relevant lesions they amounted to 90% and 98%. The presented contrast-enhanced 3D MRA technique allows for the reliable assessment of renal arterial morphology and pathology.