Magnetic resonance velocity imaging using a fast spiral phase contrast sequence.
Time-resolved velocity imaging using the magnetic resonance phase contrast technique can provide clinically important quantitative flow measurements in vivo but suffers from long scan times when based on conventional spin-warp sequences. This can be particularly problematic when imaging regions of the abdomen and thorax because of respiratory motion. We present a rapid phase contrast sequence based on an interleaved spiral k-space data acquisition that permits time-resolved, three-direction velocity imaging within a breath-hold. Results of steady and pulsatile flow phantom experiments are presented, which indicate excellent agreement between our technique and through plane flow measurements made with an in-line ultrasound probe. Also shown are results of normal volunteer studies of the carotids, renal arteries, and heart.
Pike
G B
GB
McConnel Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, QC, Canada.
Meyer
C H
CH
Brosnan
T J
TJ
Pelc
N J
NJ
D001783:Blood Flow Velocity; D002339:Carotid Arteries / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006321:Heart / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D008961:Models, Structural; D011673:Pulsatile Flow; D012077:Renal Artery / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D012082:Renal Veins / Q000033:anatomy & histology