Perfusion magnetic resonance imaging: a comprehensive update on principles and techniques

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Physiology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Perfusion, the delivery of oxygen and nutrients via blood flow, is vital for tissue health.
• Perfusion MRI is a sensitive imaging technique for microvasculature, with applications in tumor classification, stroke identification, and disease characterization.
• MRI-based perfusion measurements are minimally invasive, avoiding radiation and radioisotopes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fundamental principles and techniques of perfusion MRI.
• To provide updated knowledge on the physical principles and methodologies of perfusion MRI.

Main Methods:

• Classification of perfusion MRI techniques into those with and without exogenous contrast agents.
• Description of bolus tracking methods using contrast agents for enhanced sensitivity and spatial resolution.
• Explanation of arterial spin-labeling methods for contrast-agent-free cerebral blood flow quantification.

Main Results:

• Perfusion MRI offers insights into microvasculature crucial for diagnosing various diseases.
• Bolus methods provide high sensitivity and resolution, making them clinically prevalent.
• Arterial spin-labeling enables accurate, contrast-agent-free quantification of cerebral blood flow.

Conclusions:

• Perfusion MRI is a versatile and minimally invasive diagnostic tool.
• Understanding the principles and techniques of different perfusion MRI methods is essential for clinical application.
• This review synthesizes current knowledge on perfusion MRI principles and techniques.