[Benefits of magnetic resonance for the study of pectus excavatum in children: initial experience].

INTRODUCTION/AIM OF THE STUDY: In patients with PE, cardiovascular alterations ensue as a result of the mediastinum compression caused by sternum impingement and is responsible of many of the symptoms. Anatomical and functional assessment is of the utmost importance for a comprehensive understanding of the disease and an adequate treatment plan. Our aim was to describe the use of magnetic resonance image (MRI) in the study of PE and whether it is comparable to imaging techniques.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of the first 10 patients in which an MRI was performed as part of PE assessment within august 2015-2016. PE indexes were evaluated: Haller, correction, asymmetry, as well as sternal rotation. An analysis of right ventricular function was carried out comparing echocardiogram and MRI.

RESULTS: MRI scan on 10 patients showed the following findings: Haller index: inspiration: 3.75 (3.5-7.3) and expiration 4,9 (3.9-10.8), correction index of 24% (5-37%) and a sternal rotation of 12º (0-31º). The cardiovascular study showed a median ejection fraction of the right ventricle (EFRV) of 50% (38-64%), with 9 of the 10 patients under the normal value of 61% (54-71%). Echocardiographic findings underestimated functional alterations in all of the patients.

CONCLUSION: This initial study suggests that the use of MRI as a test of choice in the evaluation of PE subject to surgical correction is feasible. Absence of radiation offers the capacity of a complete and dynamic anatomical as well as cardiovascular study.