Dynamic multidetector CT and non-contrast-enhanced MR for right adrenal vein imaging: comparison with catheter venography in adrenal venous sampling

Objectives

To evaluate visualization of the right adrenal vein (RAV) with multidetector CT and non-contrast-enhanced MR imaging in patients with primary aldosteronism.

Methods

A total of 125 patients (67 men) scheduled for adrenal venous sampling (AVS) were included. Dynamic 64-detector-row CT and balanced steady-state free precession-based non-contrast-enhanced 3-T MR imaging were performed. RAV visualization based on a four-point score was documented. Both anatomical location and variation on cross-sectional imaging were evaluated, and the findings were compared with catheter venography as the gold standard.

Results

The RAV was visualized in 93.2 % by CT and 84.8 % by MR imaging (p?=?0.02). Positive predictive values of RAV visualization were 100 % for CT and 95.2 % for MR imaging. Imaging score was significantly higher in CT than MR imaging (p?70 % of subjects. Success rate of AVS was 99.2 %.

Conclusions

Dynamic CT is a reliable way to map the RAV prior to AVS. Non-contrast-enhanced MR imaging is an alternative when there is a risk of complication from contrast media or radiation exposure.

Key Points

? Dynamic CT and non-contrast-enhanced MR imaging detect the right adrenal vein (RAV). ? Dynamic CT can visualize the RAV more than non-contrast-enhanced MR imaging. ? Mapping the RAV helps to achieve successful adrenal venous sampling. ? Sixteen per cent of RAVs share the common trunk with accessory hepatic veins.