MR imaging of conotruncal abnormalities.

Abstract

MR imaging has been shown to be accurate in the diagnosis and follow-up of congenital abnormalities of the heart and great vessels in infants and children [1-3]. Although echocardiology, in many cases, remains the primary imaging technique in congenital heart disease, MR imaging is a useful adjunct [1-3]. The advantages of MR imaging include a wide field of view and multiplanar capabilities [1-3]. Echocardiology is often suboptimal in evaluating the superior mediastinum because of the narrow imaging window [3]. This fact is especially true in patients after surgery and in older children. Therefore, MR imaging often plays a role in the evaluation of the great vessels.