Purpose: To evaluate magnetic resonance venography (MRV) in the detection of cervical/mediastinal venous thrombosis (CMVT).
Methods: MR venograms were performed in 20 patients suspected for CMVT. 2D-TOF MR venography was used for all studies. MR and conventional venographic/surgical data were collected prospectively and analyzed in a blinded manner comparatively to other corroborative studies: venography (n = 8), color-Doppler studies (n = 15), CT (n = 12), and/or surgery (n = 6).
Results: MRV was 100% sensitive and 100% specific in the diagnosis of venous thrombosis (VT) of the cervical/mediastinal veins, present in fourteen patients, and 93% accurate in grading the extension of CMVT. MR images showed a greater number of collateral vessels than detected by contrast venography in case of complete cervical/mediastinal venous thrombosis.
Conclusion: The positive diagnosis and extent of CMVT can be accurately diagnosed by a non-invasive method such as MRV.