Comparison between Transthoracic Echocardiography and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients Status Post Atrial Switch Procedure

Abstract

In conclusion, transthoracic echocardiography underestimated right ventricular ejection fraction compared to cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging had consistently higher image quality and better visualization of the baffles. Cost differences are minimal. We propose that cardiac magnetic resonance imaging be considered first line for imaging in certain patients' status post atrial switch procedure.

Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion for the Assessment of Ventricular Function in Adults Operated on with Mustard Procedure for Complete Transposition of the Great Arteries

“…Although MRI‐derived RVEF is actually the most widely accepted measure of RV function, in clinical practice the mainstay of RV evaluation is still echocardiography because it offers the advantages of rapidity and availability. Two‐dimensional assessment of RVEF of poor accuracy …”

“…Two-dimensional assessment of RVEF of poor accuracy. 12 TAPSE is the quantitative measurement of the longitudinal systolic excursion of the lateral tricuspid valve annulus toward the apex. Because the main bulk of the RV myocardium is composed of longitudinally arranged fibers that originate at the apex of the heart and insert into the right atrioventricular junction, TAPSE could be a sensitive index of RV function.…”

Complex Interventions in the Adult with Congenital Heart Disease

“…The addition of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (or computed tomography [CT] when MRI is contraindicated) greatly enhances the diagnosis of baffle obstruction or leak. 18,19 Procedure Techniques…”

Right ventricular hypertrophy after atrial switch operation: normal adaptation process or risk factor? A cardiac magnetic resonance study

“…However, assessment of RV dimensions and function by echocardiography is difficult, due to the retrosternal position and complex chamber shape of the RV. It has been shown, that compared with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), echocardiography underestimates systemic RV function, and has a constantly lower image quality and an impaired capability to visualise the baffles [6, 7]. Therefore, CMR imaging has been established as a powerful tool for the assessment of biventricular morphology and function in patients after atrial switch operation [8, 9].…”