7. Application of Magnetic Resonanse in Diagnostics of Renal Artery Disease

Abstract

Magnetic resonance angiography (angioNMR) is new, non-invasive method of renal artery visualisation. AngioNMR seems to be an ideal screening method in diagnosis of renal artery stenosis since it is fast, operator independent and minimally invasive. The use of rapid picture acquisition and gadolinium contrast also allows to assess the consecutive phases of gadolinium passage, cortico-medullar differentiation, renal blood flow velocity and glomerular filtration rate. Results of recent studies have revealed that angioNMR is more sensitive than Doppler ultrasound for the detection of accessory renal arteries. AngioNMR cannot be used in patients with implanted metallic bodies. Other limitations arise from its low availability and high cost. AngioNMR may play an important role in the diagnosis of renovascular hypertension or ischemic nephropathy and to establish indications for the renal revascularisation procedures.