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Echo-planar MR imaging of dissolved hyperpolarized 129Xe.
S Månsson1, E Johansson, J Svensson
1Department of Experimental Research, Malmö University Hospital, Sweden.
Acta Radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)
|November 9, 2002
Summary
This study explored using hyperpolarized 129Xe gas for fast magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Results suggest rapid MRA is feasible with 129Xe if suitable carriers and high polarization are achieved.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Hyperpolarized Contrast Agents
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is crucial for visualizing blood vessels.
- Developing faster MRA techniques is essential for clinical applications.
- Hyperpolarized gases offer enhanced signal for MRI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using hyperpolarized 129Xe for fast MR angiography (MRA).
- To assess the potential of echo-planar imaging (EPI) with 129Xe for MRA.
Main Methods:
- Hyperpolarized 129Xe gas was dissolved in ethanol, a carrier with high solubility and long relaxation times.
- A bolus of dissolved Xe was injected into a flow phantom simulating blood flow (15 cm/s).
- Ultrafast EPI images (44 ms scan time) were acquired, and signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) were measured.
Main Results:
- Relaxation times for 129Xe in ethanol were T1=160±11 s and T2≈20 s.
- Reasonable quality images of the flowing liquid were obtained.
- The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) reached approximately 70.
Conclusions:
- Rapid in vivo MRA using 129Xe appears feasible based on achieved SNR.
- Further development requires an efficient, biologically acceptable Xe carrier.
- Achieving polarization levels >25% in isotopically enriched 129Xe is necessary.