[T2 image contrast evaluation using three dimension sampling perfection with application optimized contrasts using...

Area of Science:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Neuroimaging Techniques

Background:

• The 3D-SPACE sequence utilizes variable flip angle evolution to optimize contrast and reduce specific absorption rate (SAR).
• Its contrast characteristics are expected to differ from conventional spin echo (SE) and turbo spin echo (TSE) sequences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the signal intensity characteristics and central nervous system (CNS) image contrast of T(2)-weighted 3D-SPACE sequences.
• To compare 3D-SPACE performance against SE and TSE sequences.

Main Methods:

• T(2)-weighted MR images were acquired using SE, 3D-TSE, and 3D-SPACE sequences on a phantom and five healthy volunteers.
• Signal intensity in the phantom and tissue contrasts (white/gray matter, CSF/fat, gray matter/fat) in volunteers were analyzed.

Main Results:

• 3D-SPACE showed significantly decreased signal intensity for T(1) values below 250 ms, especially with extended effective echo times.
• White/gray matter contrast was highest with 3D-SPACE.
• CSF/fat and gray matter/fat contrast with 3D-SPACE was superior to TSE but inferior to SE.

Conclusions:

• 3D-SPACE provides CNS image contrasts comparable to SE.
• Signal intensity reduction was observed in regions with very short T(1) and T(2) values.