[Vascular applications of interventional MRI]

The flow sensitivity inherent to the MR experiment allows for the non-invasive assessment of both the arterial and venous vasculature in any desired plane with good spatial resolution. Data can be acquired in a three-dimensional form, permitting reformating in any plane. In addition, MRI is capable of providing quantitative blood flow information with the use of phase-contrast flow-mapping techniques. Ultrafast gradient echo and echoplanar data acquisition strategies even permit imaging in near-real time. The availability of open MRI configurations now permits one to take advantage of the unique imaging features inherent to MR imaging for the purpose of guidance and control of various intravascular procedures. With the recent development of the MR tracking and MR profiling techniques, permitting visualization of guide-wires and catheters relative to their surroundings in the MR environment in real time, one of the last obstacles to 'Interventional MR angiography' has in effect been overcome. In addition, MR catheters can be modified to acquire high-resolution MR images of the vascular wall, thereby opening vast possibilities regarding characterization of atherosclerotic plaques. This review introduces the underlying techniques for catheter and guide-wire visualization in the MR environment, describes preliminary interventions in animals and humans and discusses the potential of intravascular MRI.