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
Abstract:
Acquired diseases of the aorta and peripheral arteries are common. Owing to technical advances, magnetic resonance (MR) angiography has become the primary imaging modality for assessment of aortic and peripheral arterial disease. Contrast material-enhanced MR angiography is a rapid and robust technique that has emerged as the principal MR angiographic technique for evaluation of vascular disease. Two-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography still has some well-validated applications, especially in distal peripheral vascular disease. Phase-contrast flow imaging is an important technique for quantification of blood flow. Black-blood imaging is a valuable tool for evaluation of the vessel wall. Understanding the principles of the main MR angiographic techniques is essential for consistent acquisition of diagnostic images. In addition, tailoring the acquisition parameters and the imaging protocol to the vessel being imaged and the clinical question is mandatory for optimal results. Future technical developments that will lead to faster image acquisition and better contrast agents promise to further improve image quality.
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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