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MR angiography using steady-state free precession
Thomas K F Foo1, Vincent B Ho, Hani B Marcos
1Applied Science Laboratory, GE Medical Systems, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA. thomas.foo@med.ge.com
Abstract:
Contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) using steady-state free precession (SSFP) pulse sequences is described. Using SSFP, vascular structures can be visualized with high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at a substantial (delay) time after the initial arterial pass of contrast media. The peak blood SSFP signal was diminished by <20% 30 min after the initial administration of 0.2 mmol/kg of Gd-chelate. The proposed method allows a second opportunity to study arterial or venous structures with high image SNR and high spatial resolution. A mask subtraction scheme using spin echo SSFP-S(-) acquisition is also described to reduce stationary background signal from the delayed SSFP angiography images.
Insights
Steady-state free precession (SSFP) pulse sequences enable high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) visualization of vascular structures long after contrast injection. This contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) method offers a second imaging window with high spatial resolution.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Background:
- Contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) is crucial for vascular imaging.
- Traditional CE-MRA techniques have limitations in visualizing delayed vascular phases.
- Steady-state free precession (SSFP) offers potential for improved SNR in MR angiography.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and evaluate contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) using steady-state free precession (SSFP) pulse sequences.
- To assess the feasibility of visualizing vascular structures at delayed time points post-contrast administration.
- To investigate methods for optimizing image quality and reducing background noise in delayed CE-MRA.
Main Methods:
- Utilized steady-state free precession (SSFP) pulse sequences for CE-MRA.
- Administered 0.2 mmol/kg of Gd-chelate contrast media.
- Evaluated signal decay of blood SSFP signal over 30 minutes.
- Implemented a mask subtraction scheme using spin echo SSFP-S(-) acquisition.
Main Results:
- SSFP sequences allowed visualization of vascular structures with high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at delayed time points.
- Peak blood SSFP signal diminished by less than 20% at 30 minutes post-contrast.
- The method provided a second opportunity for imaging with high SNR and spatial resolution.
- Mask subtraction effectively reduced stationary background signal.
Conclusions:
- CE-MRA with SSFP sequences is effective for visualizing vascular structures with high SNR at delayed phases.
- This technique expands the imaging window for arterial and venous assessment.
- The described methods enhance image quality and diagnostic utility of delayed CE-MRA.