Optimization of spiral-based pulse sequences for first-pass myocardial perfusion imaging

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Medical Imaging Physics
• Radiology

Background:

• Spiral MRI trajectories offer advantages like isotropic resolution and motion robustness.
• Limited use in first-pass perfusion imaging due to off-resonance and data artifacts.
• Potential for reduced sensitivity to cardiac motion-induced dark-rim artifacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design interleaved spiral pulse sequences for first-pass myocardial perfusion imaging.
• To clinically evaluate the designed sequences for image quality.
• To assess the presence of common artifacts like dark-rim, blurring, and dropout.

Main Methods:

• Development of novel interleaved spiral pulse sequences.
• Optimization of readout duration, flip angle strategy, and image reconstruction.
• Clinical evaluation of image quality and artifact levels.

Main Results:

• Spiral artifacts were successfully abated through careful sequence design and reconstruction.
• High-quality first-pass myocardial perfusion images with high signal-to-noise ratio were achieved.
• Evaluation confirmed reduced dark-rim, blurring, and dropout artifacts compared to conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• Optimized interleaved spiral sequences are effective for high-quality first-pass myocardial perfusion imaging.
• This technique mitigates common artifacts, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
• Spiral MRI shows promise for improved cardiac perfusion assessment.