Ultrafast MR imaging of the pelvis

MR gradient systems with higher slew rates and gradient amplitude enable certain forms of imaging that are not practical with older gradient systems. These newer pulse sequences include single shot half-Fourier T2-weighted images and echo planar imaging. More important in MR imaging of the pelvis, these gradient systems benefit more conventional imaging methods such as gadolinium-enhanced 3D MR angiography, dynamic gradient echo contrast-enhanced images, and T2-weighted fast spin echo images, by shortening echo times. For most MR imaging of the pelvis, spatial resolution is paramount, and therefore sequences such as half-Fourier acquisition Turbo spin echo (HASTE) and 3D gadolinium-enhanced dynamic imaging play a less important role than in the upper abdomen. The potential of these techniques for diffusion or perfusion studies in the pelvis has not been explored.