[Quantitative multi-slice imaging of perfusion of the brain].
OBJECTIVE
To develop an MR pulse sequence that allows the determination of the quantitative perfusion of the brain by imaging the passage of a contrast agent bolus with high temporal and spatial resolution.


METHODS
An EPI sequence, EPIDET (Echo Planar Imaging using Different Echo Times), was developed that allows the acquisition of different slices at different echo times. The passage of a contrast agent bolus was recorded in a slice through the large brain feeding arteries at a short echo time (TE1 = 17 ms), while brain parenchyma was imaged in up to nine additional slices at a long echo time (TE2 = 34 ms).


RESULTS
The different echo times allowed the determination of the arterial input function (signal decrease to 32%-59% of baseline intensity) and gave a sufficient signal reduction (14-22%) for reliable quantification of perfusion in brain parenchyma.


CONCLUSIONS
The combination of different echo times of the DUAL-FLASH sequence and the multislice capability of EPI sequences in the EPIDET sequence enables the quantification of multi-slice perfusion examinations. Compared to the DUAL-FLASH sequence EPIDET improves spatial and temporal resolution.
Institut für Röntgendiagnostik, Universität Würzburg. herbert.koestler@mail.uni-wuerzburg.de
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Köstler
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Becker
D001812:Blood-Brain Barrier / Q000502:physiology; D001921:Brain / Q000502:physiology*; D002560:Cerebrovascular Circulation; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage; D017352:Echo-Planar Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020244:Infarction, Middle Cerebral Artery / Q000175:diagnosis*; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008297:Male; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012984:Software; D013997:Time Factors
D003287:Contrast Media