Nanda Deepa Thimmappa MD, MBBS, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Mitchell Anthony Cooper, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Silvina Paola Dutruel MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Keigo Kawaji PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Thanh D. Nguyen PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Yi Wang PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To assess the feasibility and reliability of ECG gated cardiac MRI with a simplified reusable electrode design that does not touch the skin.

A silicon positioner holding up to 4 ECG leads was developed to allow detection of ECG signals from the back without requiring shaving, adhesive or even removal of the gown. The patient lies down on the device such that the patient’s weight ensures good contact of the leads against the patient’s gown and electrode Gel diffusing through the gown provides electrical contact with the skin (figure). Leads were tested at 1.5 T (GE Signa EXCITE) using axial double IR, SSFP, fgret perfusion, delayed IR. 12 subjects (Females: 5), mean age: 41 years (27-81yrs) were evaluated with both traditional disposable leads and this reusable ECG pad. Comparison of electrical signals and time for set up was recorded.

The total set up time (initial set up before the scan and time to take off the leads after scanning) was 7:24 minutes with the leads compared to 4:56 minutes with the pad with a mean difference of 2:28 minutes (31%, p=0.005). The ECG signal and image quality was comparable for the two techniques. Volunteers preferred the ECG pad, finding it to be comfortable and convenient.

This simplified approach to ECG gating is more convenient and comfortable for patients without sacrificing ECG signal quality.

Robust and comfortable ECG gating with this reusable silicon lead holder that does not require skin contact improves cardiac gated MRI by eliminating uncomfortable disposable adhesive ECG leads.

Thimmappa, N, Cooper, M, Dutruel, S, Kawaji, K, Nguyen, T, Wang, Y, ECG Pad for Efficient Cardiac MR Gating.  Radiological Society of North America 2013 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, December 1 - December 6, 2013 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2013/13024652.html