From the RSNA refresher courses: MR imaging of aortic and peripheral vascular disease

Servet Tatli1, Martin J Lipton, Brian D Davison

  • 1Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115, USA. statli@partners.org

Insights

Magnetic resonance (MR) angiography is key for diagnosing aortic and peripheral arterial diseases. Understanding MR angiography techniques ensures accurate imaging for vascular disease assessment.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Cardiovascular Imaging

Background:

  • Acquired diseases affecting the aorta and peripheral arteries are prevalent.
  • Magnetic resonance (MR) angiography has become a leading imaging method for these conditions due to technological advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the primary MR angiography techniques used for evaluating aortic and peripheral arterial diseases.
  • To emphasize the importance of understanding these techniques for diagnostic image acquisition.

Main Methods:

  • Contrast-enhanced MR angiography as a principal technique for vascular disease evaluation.
  • Two-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography for specific applications like distal peripheral disease.
  • Phase-contrast flow imaging for blood flow quantification.
  • Black-blood imaging for vessel wall assessment.

Main Results:

  • Contrast-enhanced MR angiography is rapid and robust for vascular disease.
  • Two-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography remains valuable for distal peripheral disease.
  • Phase-contrast and black-blood imaging offer crucial quantitative and qualitative assessments.

Conclusions:

  • Mastery of MR angiography principles is essential for consistent, diagnostic image acquisition.
  • Tailoring imaging protocols to specific vessels and clinical questions is mandatory for optimal results.
  • Future advancements in speed and contrast agents will further enhance MR angiography for vascular disease evaluation.

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