Combining Arterial Spin Labeling and Cardiovascular Indices in Children with Pulmonary Embolism

Motivation: Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a non-contrast, free-breathing sequence that is recently used for assessing lung perfusion Goal(s): We assessed utility of ASL for detecting pulmonary perfusion defects and correlate perfusion defects with cardiac indices in children ≤ 18 years diagnosed with pulmonary embolism Approach: Sagittal ASL using MS-FAIR was used to detect pulmonary perfusion. CMR indices at rest and supine bike ergometry were analyzed and compared with perfusion defect. Results: Of the 27 studies, ASL detected perfusion defects in all 19 studies performed within 4 weeks of PE diagnosis. An inverse correlation between perfusion defect and LV end-diastolic volume index was found. Impact: ASL is a non-contrast, free breathing sequence that detects pulmonary perfusion defects in children with pulmonary embolism. An inverse correlation between perfusion defect and LV end-diastolic volume index was found, providing insights into cardiopulmonary interactions and potential therapeutics.