Regional evaluation of pulmonary blood arrival time assessed by matrix pencil decomposition MRI in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis

Motivation: Regional pulmonary blood arrival time (rpBAT) is a novel parameter derived from non-invasive matrix pencil decomposition MRI, reflecting the transit time of the arterial pulse wave. Goal(s): We aimed to evaluate its clinical potential. Approach: rpBAT was assessed in 20 pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis, in regions with and without perfusion defect as defined by the regional perfusion amplitude. Results: A rpBAT delay in regions with perfusion defect was found. The delay correlated strongly with total MR-lung volumes. Consequently, we assume an influence of vessel distances on rpBAT delay, but found indications for further impact factors including structural and functional lung alterations. Impact: The delay of regional pulmonary blood arrival time in perfusion defects of CF patients correlates with total MR-lung volume, and is presumably impacted by impaired lung structure and function. Further investigation may lead to more sensitive evaluation of lung pathologies.