Kathryn M. Broadhouse1, Anthony N. Price1, Giuliana Durighel1, Anna E. Finnemore1, David J. Cox1, Alan M. Groves1, A David Edwards1, Jo V. Hajnal1
1Robert Steiner Unit, Imaging Sciences Department, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Hammersmith Hospital , Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
This study looks at the feasibility of measuring pulse wave velocity (PWV) using PC-MRI in neonates and seeks to identify any changes in PWV associated with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). PWV was quantified in the aorta between the aortic valve and the descending aorta at the level of the diaphragm in 29 infants. Eight had a PDA determined by echocardiography. Three methods were used to assess PWV; delay between the arrival time, time of maximum gradient and time of peak flow of the 2 flow curves. No significant difference in PWV between control and PDA infants was found.