Cardiac magnetic resonance perfusion imaging using a single intravenous line

Background CMR perfusion (CMRP) imaging using adenosine is increasingly used for the assessment of patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. The scanning protocol requires administration of intravenous adenosine to achieve maximum hyperaemia followed by acquisition of CMR images during first pass perfusion of gadolinium. Traditionally this involves placing two intravenous lines, one in each arm, for the administration of adenosine and gadolinium. Two-way intravenous adapters allow administration of two compatible agents through a single intravenous line. We introduced this simple adapter for use during CMRP at our institution. We now report on our experience and the impact of this change to our CMRP protocol.