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Individualized arterial spin labeling background suppression by rapid T1 mapping during acquisition
T Lindner1, H Guerreiro2, F Austein2
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Gebauede W14, 20251, Hamburg, Germany. t.lindner@uke.de.
European Radiology
|February 4, 2022
Summary
Optimizing background suppression pulses using T1 mapping in arterial spin labeling (ASL) enhances perfusion signal and improves visualization of cortical structures. This individualized approach offers better image quality compared to standard methods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Neuroimaging
- Physiology
Background:
- Arterial spin labeling (ASL) quantifies blood flow using label-minus-control images.
- Background suppression pulses enhance ASL contrast but rely on estimated tissue relaxation times.
- Optimizing these pulses is crucial for accurate perfusion measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To improve ASL perfusion contrast by individualizing background suppression pulse timing.
- To utilize T1 mapping for precise timing optimization.
- To enhance the visualization of cortical structures in ASL imaging.
Main Methods:
- Rapid T1 mapping using the variable flip angle technique to determine optimal pulse timing.
- Inclusion of ten healthy volunteers for data acquisition.
- Comparison of image quality using visual grading and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Main Results:
- The proposed method demonstrated a higher signal-to-background ratio.
- Cortical structures were more clearly visualized with the individualized timing.
- Relative blood flow measurements were significantly higher using the modified technique.
Conclusions:
- Individually optimized background suppression pulses enhance ASL image appearance and cortical visualization.
- The technique improves signal-to-background ratio and relative blood flow quantification.
- Scan time prolongation requires further investigation.
