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Three-dimensional MRI of coronary arteries using an intravascular contrast agent
D Li1, R P Dolan, R C Walovitch
1Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.
Abstract:
To assess the effectiveness of an intravascular contrast agent, MS-325, for enhancing the vascular signal in coronary MR angiograms, six minipigs were studied using a three-dimensional, gradient-echo sequence with retrospective respiratory gating. To suppress the myocardial signal, preparatory RF pulses were applied before data acquisition. With the administration of MS-325, the blood signal-to-noise ratio increased by 97-276%, depending on the region of interest in which the blood signal was measured and the precontrast imaging sequence structures. The blood/myocardium contrast-to-noise ratio also significantly increased. High-resolution images (0.58 x 0.58 x 1 mm3) obtained from postmortem pig hearts demonstrated the potential delineation of coronary arteries with MS-325. In conclusion, this study supports further evaluation of the utility of MS-325 in improving coronary MR angiography in humans.
Insights
MS-325 significantly enhances vascular signals in coronary MR angiography, improving blood signal-to-noise ratios by up to 276% and enabling better coronary artery visualization.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Background:
- Coronary artery disease diagnosis relies on accurate imaging.
- Improving signal and contrast in coronary MR angiography is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate MS-325 as an intravascular contrast agent.
- To assess its effectiveness in enhancing coronary MR angiography.
Main Methods:
- Six minipigs underwent 3D gradient-echo MR angiography with respiratory gating.
- Myocardial signal suppression was achieved using preparatory RF pulses.
- MS-325 was administered to assess its impact on vascular signals.
Main Results:
- MS-325 increased blood signal-to-noise ratio by 97-276%.
- Significant improvements in blood/myocardium contrast-to-noise ratio were observed.
- High-resolution imaging demonstrated potential for coronary artery delineation.
Conclusions:
- MS-325 shows promise for enhancing coronary MR angiography.
- Further human studies are warranted to confirm its clinical utility.