Abstract

In the present study, we tested the ability of multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify and retrospectively characterize atherosclerotic lesions in human ex vivo coronary arteries. Thirteen ex vivo hearts were studied with MDCT and MRI. MDCT-images were obtained with an isotropic voxel size of 0.6 mm3. MR images were obtained with an in-plane resolution of 195 μm and 3 mm slice thickness. All images were matched with histopathology sections. For both modalities, the sensitivity for the detection of any atherosclerotic lesion was evaluated, and a retrospective analysis of plaque morphology according to criteria defined by the American Heart Association (AHA) was performed. At histopathology, 28 atherosclerotic lesions were found. 21 and 23 of these lesions were identified by MDCT and MRI, respectively. Both modalities detected a small number of false-positive lesions. After retrospective matching with histopathology, MDCT as well as MRI were able to differentiate typical morpholocigal features for fatty, fibrous or calcified plaque components. Using the information presented in this study, in vivo coronary artery wall imaging using MDCT as well as MRI could be facilitated and supported for future investigations on this subject.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)243-252
Number of pages10
JournalAtherosclerosis
Volume174
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2004

Keywords

  • Computed tomography
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Histopathology
  • Magnetic resonance imaging
  • Plaque imaging

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Multidetector-row computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of atherosclerotic lesions in human ex vivo coronary arteries'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this