Troubled Judging of Bronchus Compression Due to Contrast-Filled Balloon in Three-Dimensional Rotational Angiography

Three-dimensional rotational angiography (3DRA) is a suitable technique to detect the risk of left main bronchus (LMB) compression during left pulmonary artery (LPA) stenting in partial cavopulmonary connection and total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC). We report on a case of a 4-year-old boy with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and TCPC in which 3DRA and bronchoscopy gave conflicting information on airway patency during balloon interrogation. The balloon with high contrast concentration created a severe artifact impeding visibility of the LMB. Simultaneous flexible bronchoscopy revealed an unobstructed LMB. Repeated 3DRAs with lower contrast concentration had no artifact and showed a patent airway in accordance with the bronchoscopy. Conventional LPA stenting was performed without indication for stent ovalization. The benefit of low contrast concentration in the interrogation balloon was demonstrated in a second case of an 11-year-old boy with TCPC. The margins of the LPA and LMB were clearly visible without blank-out artifact. Oval stent procedure was necessary to prevent LMB compression. When 3DRA is used for vessel–airway interrogation, the balloon contrast concentration should be low in order to avoid artifacts. When in doubt, simultaneous flexible bronchoscopy can overcome the dilemma in airway judgment

Fetal MRI of the heart and brain in congenital heart disease

Antenatal assessment of congenital heart disease and associated anomalies by ultrasound has improved perinatal care. Fetal cardiovascular MRI and fetal brain MRI are rapidly evolving for fetal diagnostic testing of congenital heart disease. We give an overview on the use of fetal cardiovascular MRI and fetal brain MRI in congenital heart disease, focusing on the current applications and diagnostic yield of structural and functional imaging during pregnancy. Fetal cardiovascular MRI in congenital heart disease is a promising supplementary imaging method to echocardiography for the diagnosis of antenatal congenital heart disease in weeks 30–40 of pregnancy. Concomitant fetal brain MRI is superior to brain ultrasound to show the complex relationship between fetal haemodynamics in congenital heart disease and brain development.</p