TYPE-A DISSECTION OF THE THORACIC AORTA - USE OF MR-IMAGING FOR LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP

PURPOSE: To evaluate routine magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for long-term follow-up in patients who undergo surgery for type A aortic dissection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-two MR examinations were performed in 36 patients. Standard spin-echo images were obtained with electrocardiographic gating (n = 92) and rapid images with a fast low-angle shot sequence and intravenous administration of gadopentetate dimeglumine (n = 25). All segments of the native thoracic aorta were evaluated. Anastomoses of the prosthesis and periprosthetic hematoma were carefully analyzed. RESULTS: Of 22 complications that occurred in 18 patients, 18 were diagnosed at MR imaging (nine false aneurysms and nine aneurysms distal to the graft). Nine patients underwent reoperation. The findings at MR imaging correlated with those at surgery. CONCLUSION: Routine follow-up with MR imaging should improve long-term survival in patients who survive emergency surgical repair of type A aortic dissection.