mri or cath??

[mtmom]

This question is irrelevant since I am having my AVR on June 1. But just curious as to which test is more accurate in determining the valve area. According to the cardiac Cath, the calculated area is .67. According to the cardiac MRI, it is .9. It really makes no difference but just wondering about the accuracy. Thanks

 

[epstns]

I am not a professional, but I've always been told that the cath is the "gold standard" test and gives the docs the best information about the heart and the circulatory system around it. This is because they are actually "in there" and can physically measure dimensions and pressures, thus enabling them to better understand the individual patient's situation.

 

[tom in MO]

My impression is it goes echo<MRI<catherization when it comes to diagnosis of a valve problem.

 

[mtmom]

Thanks for the responses. Now to try not to think about "it" for a couple more days!!

 

[TitanEddie]

My cath and echo showed .9 or less opening, mri show 1.1 opening. Surgeon said that much didn't make any real difference so I guess either or. They told me the cath is to check the heart, valve and arteries, and the mri was to check the aorta so all I can go on is what they say.

 

[ejc61]

Pretty much agree with above. Cath is super important before surgery. It's to check your "entire railroad" from heart to all vessels in the body cavity as my cardiologist dumbed it down for me. Surgeon said cath gives him an idea of what to expect. He said surgeons don't like surprises. Good luck tomorrow.