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Use of fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) pulse sequences in MRI of the brain
J V Hajnal1, D J Bryant, L Kasuboski
1Hirst Research Centre, Wembley, U.K.
Abstract:
Fluid attenuated inversion recovery pulse sequences with a long echo time (TE) have been used to image the brain in one volunteer and four patients. The long inversion time used with this sequence suppresses the signal from CSF and the long TE produces very heavy T2 weighting. The marked reduction in flow artefact from CSF and the high T2 weighting enabled anatomical detail to be seen within the brain stem and produced high lesion contrast in areas close to CSF. Lesions were demonstrated with greater conspicuity than with conventional T2-weighted sequences in patients with cerebral infarction, low grade astrocytoma, and diplegia.
Insights
This study shows that long echo time Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery (FLAIR) MRI sequences improve brain imaging. These sequences enhance visualization of brain stem anatomy and lesion conspicuity in various neurological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Radiology
Background:
- Conventional T2-weighted MRI sequences often suffer from artifacts and limited contrast, especially near cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery (FLAIR) pulse sequences are utilized for brain imaging, but optimization is key for enhanced visualization.
Observation:
- A modified FLAIR sequence with a long echo time (TE) was applied to image the brain in volunteers and patients.
- This sequence effectively suppressed the signal from CSF and achieved heavy T2 weighting.
Findings:
- The long TE FLAIR sequence significantly reduced CSF flow artifacts, improving visualization of brain stem anatomy.
- High lesion contrast was achieved in areas adjacent to CSF, demonstrating greater conspicuity compared to conventional T2-weighted sequences.
- Effective lesion detection was observed in patients with cerebral infarction, low-grade astrocytoma, and diplegia.
Implications:
- This optimized FLAIR sequence offers superior diagnostic capabilities for detecting and characterizing brain lesions.
- It provides enhanced anatomical detail, particularly in challenging regions like the brain stem.
- The improved lesion conspicuity has the potential to refine diagnosis and treatment planning for various neurological disorders.