Currently, MRA is not considered the optimal technique for preoperative imaging of perforators before flap reconstructive plastic surgeries. In this prospective study, we demonstrate that the quality of perforator MRA can be greatly enhanced by using the phase contrast technique. Perforator imaging with PC-MRA not only generates images with better quality and contrast than X-ray and iodinated contrast based CTA, the current clinical gold-standard, but also offers unique features, such as the capability to visualize venous flow and differentiate perforator arteries and veins, that are highly relevant to the design, planning, and execution of DIEP flap reconstructive surgery.
This abstract and the presentation materials are available to members only; a login is required.