Three-dimensional coronary MR angiography using zonal echo planar imaging.
Using an adapted two-dimensional spatially selective RF excitation scheme, a novel yet practical three-dimensional (3D) zonal echo-planar imaging technique for MR coronary angiography has been developed. The robustness of the technique compared with the two-dimensional (2D) segmented fast low angle shot (FLASH) method was evaluated using the right coronary artery images of 16 asymptomatic volunteers with a 0.5-T mobile scanner. Each 3D acquisition required multiple breath-holds, and real-time navigator echoes were used to ensure consistent breath-holding. Advantages of the technique include an improved signal-to-noise ratio, clearer depiction of tortuous coronary vessels due to decreased partial volume effects, and reduced motion blurring by the use of a short echo-planar readout.
Yang
G Z
GZ
Magnetic Resonance Unit, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
Gatehouse
P D
PD
Keegan
J
J
Mohiaddin
R H
RH
Firmin
D N
DN
D000328:Adult; D016477:Artifacts; D003331:Coronary Vessels / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D017352:Echo-Planar Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D012119:Respiration; D013997:Time Factors