[MR angiography in intrathoracic masses: evaluation of the superior vena cava, its major branches and their relation to the mass].

: MR angiography (MRA) of the thorax was evaluated in six healthy volunteers and 48 patients with an intrathoracic mass potentially infiltrating to the superior vena cava and/or its major branches. It was also compared with CT, spin echo MRI and X-ray venography. Three methods were used for MRA: sequential 2D-TOF MRA with presaturation band over the heart, 3D-MRA with bolus administration of Gd-DTPA in a single breath-hold and sequential 2D-TOF MRA with administration of Gd-DTPA. The major vessels themselves and their relation to the mass were clearly visualized on MRA in all volunteers and patients. Since original MRA demonstrated these vessels more clearly than projection MRA in our series, we considered that interpretation of MRA should be based mainly on original MRA. MRA generally could visualize the vessels as well as the other imaging modalities, and was sometimes superior to them. In conclusion, MRA is a non-invasive and effective method for the evaluation of major vessels and their relation to the mass in patients with an intrathoracic mass.