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Technical aspects of MR perfusion
1Division of Medical Physics, University of Leeds, Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, LS2 9JT Leeds, UK. s.sourbron@leeds.ac.uk
Abstract:
The most common methods for measuring perfusion with MRI are arterial spin labelling (ASL), dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC-MRI), and T(1)-weighted dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE-MRI). This review focuses on the latter approach, which is by far the most common in the body and produces measures of capillary permeability as well. The aim is to present a concise but complete overview of the technical issues involved in DCE-MRI data acquisition and analysis. For details the reader is referred to the references. The presentation of the topic is essentially generic and focuses on technical aspects that are common to all DCE-MRI measurements. For organ-specific problems and illustrations, we refer to the other papers in this issue. In Section 1 "Theory" the basic quantities are defined, and the physical mechanisms are presented that provide a relation between the hemodynamic parameters and the DCE-MRI signal. Section 2 "Data acquisition" discusses the issues involved in the design of an optimal measurement protocol. Section 3 "Data analysis" summarizes the steps that need to be taken to determine the hemodynamic parameters from the measured data.
Insights
Dynamic contrast enhancement MRI (DCE-MRI) is a key technique for measuring tissue perfusion and capillary permeability. This review covers the essential technical aspects of DCE-MRI data acquisition and analysis for accurate hemodynamic parameter assessment.
Area of Science:
- Radiology and Imaging Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers multiple methods for perfusion measurement, including Arterial Spin Labelling (ASL), Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast (DSC-MRI), and T(1)-weighted Dynamic Contrast Enhancement (DCE-MRI).
- DCE-MRI is the most prevalent body imaging technique, providing insights into capillary permeability alongside perfusion.
- A comprehensive understanding of DCE-MRI's technical facets is crucial for its effective application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a concise yet thorough overview of the technical challenges in DCE-MRI data acquisition and analysis.
- To present a generic, technically focused review applicable to all DCE-MRI measurements.
- To define fundamental quantities and physical mechanisms relating hemodynamic parameters to DCE-MRI signals.
Main Methods:
- Review of technical issues in DCE-MRI data acquisition, focusing on optimal protocol design.
- Summary of data analysis steps required for determining hemodynamic parameters from acquired DCE-MRI data.
- Discussion of theoretical underpinnings, including basic quantity definitions and physical mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Detailed examination of factors influencing DCE-MRI data acquisition quality.
- Structured approach to analyzing DCE-MRI data for extracting hemodynamic information.
- Theoretical framework connecting MRI signal changes to physiological parameters like perfusion and permeability.
Conclusions:
- DCE-MRI is a versatile technique for assessing tissue perfusion and capillary permeability.
- Mastery of DCE-MRI data acquisition and analysis protocols is essential for reliable hemodynamic measurements.
- This review serves as a foundational guide to the technical aspects of DCE-MRI.
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