Segmented k-space fast cardiac imaging using an echo-train readout.
A segmented k-space fast gradient-echo pulse sequence with an echo-train readout (FGRE-ET) was developed for high-quality cine imaging of the heart in reduced scan times. Using segmented FGRE-ET, cine images of the heart can be acquired in as few as 1-5 heart beats and do not display the geometric distortion and flow-related artifacts typically associated with cardiac echoplanar imaging (EPI). Segmented FGRE-ET was compared with conventional segmented FGRE and with conventional multi-phase EPI in normal volunteers. Segmented FGRE-ET was found to have reduced temporal blurring compared with segmented FGRE for cine imaging in 4 heart beats (P<0.05). Also, segmented FGRE-ET did not display geometric distortion characteristic of conventional EPI (P<0.05). Segmented FGRE-ET may be particularly applicable to functional cardiac stress testing because it allows versatile cine imaging in very short breath-holds.
Epstein
F H
FH
Applied Science Laboratory, General Electric Medical Systems, Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA.
Wolff
S D
SD
Arai
A E
AE
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D016477:Artifacts; D017352:Echo-Planar Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D006321:Heart / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D019028:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Cine / Q000379:methods*; D012016:Reference Values; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity