Three-dimensional fast spin-echo imaging: pulse sequence and in vivo image evaluation.
Three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance imaging allows thin-section acquisition and therefore more accurate multiplanar reconstruction than conventional two-dimensional spin-echo imaging. Unfortunately, addition of a third acquisition plane extends imaging time greatly. With gradient-echo techniques, 3D acquisitions have become clinically useful. These techniques are limited, however, by susceptibility and other field inhomogeneity artifacts and decreased signal-to-noise ratios compared with spin-echo techniques. The authors describe implementation of a true spin-echo 3D technique that, by using fast spin-echo parameters, reduces acquisition time to a clinically useful level. Potential applications of the technique are demonstrated.
Yuan
C
C
Department of Radiology, University of Washington Medical Center 98195.
Schmiedl
U P
UP
Weinberger
E
E
Krueck
W R
WR
Rand
S D
SD
D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008961:Models, Structural