Dependence of scar contrast in LGE images on the time interval after contrast injection
2011

How Timing Affects Scar Visibility in Heart Imaging

Sample size: 36 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Vijayakumar Sathya, Kholmovski Eugene G, Marrouche Nassir F

Primary Institution: University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

Hypothesis

What time post contrast injection would give optimal contrast between post-ablation scar and blood and scar and normal myocardium?

Conclusion

LGE imaging performed between 25 to 45 minutes post contrast injection gives comparable visibility of post-ablation scar.

Supporting Evidence

  • LGE imaging can evaluate post-ablation scar and pre-ablation remodeling of the left atrium.
  • The study used a 3T Verio scanner and a full dose of contrast agent.
  • CNR was computed for scar visibility in relation to normal myocardium and blood.

Takeaway

This study looked at how long after getting a special dye for heart imaging you should wait to see scars clearly. They found that waiting between 25 to 45 minutes works well.

Methodology

The study analyzed LGE data from 36 patients, divided into three groups based on time post contrast injection, and computed Contrast to Noise Ratios.

Participant Demographics

Patients who underwent post-ablation LGE imaging.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p=0.24, p=0.69, p=0.97, p=0.54

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1532-429X-13-S1-P42

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