Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Preparation and In Vitro Characterization of Dendrimer-based Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: December 4, 2016
Comparison of gradient-echo and steady-state free precession for coronary artery magnetic resonance angiography using
Vibhas S Deshpande1, Friedrich Cavagna, Fabio Maggioni
1Siemens Medical Solutions, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA.Vibhas.Deshpande@siemens.com
Objectives:
Intravascular contrast agents may offer longer imaging times and better vessel visualization over conventional extravascular agents for magnetic resonance coronary angiography. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of intravascular contrast (B-22956/1) on coronary visualization. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were compared in inversion-recovery (IR)-prepared FLASH (fast low-angle shot) and IR-trueFISP (true fast imaging with steady-state precession) sequences before and after contrast.
Materials And Methods:
Numeric simulations were performed to compare blood signals in IR-trueFISP and IR-FLASH sequences. Coronary imaging was performed in 15 swine.
Results:
Postcontrast CNR was improved 23% with breathhold IR-FLASH and 55% with breathhold IR-trueFISP as compared with precontrast trueFISP. With free-breathing, long TR IR-FLASH provided 131% and 55.8% higher SNR and 132% and 58.7% increased CNR compared with IR-FLASH with shorter TR and IR-trueFISP, respectively.
Conclusion:
Intravascular contrast agents improve CNR and vessel visualization in coronary magnetic resonance angiography with IR-FLASH and IR-trueFISP.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System II:Types of Echocardiography
Types of Echocardiography
Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
TTE is the most common type of echocardiogram which involves placing a transducer on the patient's chest, emitting sound waves to create heart images. TTE is invaluable for evaluating the heart's size, structure, and motion, making it particularly useful for diagnosing...
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography