Purpose: To prospectively determine whether the use of an extracellular contrast agent could improve the image quality of TGrE sequence for evaluation of left ventricular (LV) volumes and function, using a 3.0 T cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) system.
Methods: Fifteen consecutive patients underwent CMR imaging at 3.0 T. In each patient, 3 long axis views and multiple short axis slices with complete coverage of the left ventricle were performed using turbo gradient echo (TGrE) sequence before and after application of contrast agent 0.15 mmol/kg gadopentetate dimeglumine. LV volumes and ejection fractions were calculated using Simpson's rule and Area-Length-Method. For comparison of native and postcontrast TGrE, image quality, blood-to-myocardium contrast, and cardiac function parameters were assessed.
Results: Application of contrast agent improves the image quality and blood-to-myocardium contrast in long-axis views. In short axis views, however, administration of contrast agent decrease the image quality and blood-to-myocardium contrast. After application of contrast agent in long axis scans, end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were significantly larger (+ 12.9 mL [9%], p < 0.02; + 16.9 mL [17%], p < 0.004 respectively), and LV ejection fraction borderline lower (-4.1% [7%], p = 0.08). In short axis scans, however, end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were significantly smaller (-14.8 mL [13%], p < 0.001; -17.6 mL [21%], p < 0.004 respectively), and LV ejection fraction borderline higher (3% [6%], p = 0.052).
Conclusion: The use of an extracellular contrast agent improves the image quality for the assessment of LV volumes at 3.0 Tesla for TGrE sequence in long axis but not in short axis views.