MR imaging-guided vascular procedures using CO2 as a contrast agent.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to test the use of CO(2) as a black blood contrast agent for MR imaging-guided vascular procedures in an animal model.


METHODS
Repeated intraarterial CO(2) injections were performed through a catheter located in the aorta and the renal arteries of three fully anesthetized pigs. Real-time images were acquired using a steady-state free precession sequence.


RESULTS
During the CO(2) injections, the bright blood in the aorta and the main renal artery was totally replaced, and this procedure resulted in an immediate, statistically significant signal loss in the vessel lumen. In more peripheral vessels, CO(2) improved the vessel conspicuity substantially. Confirmation of vessel patency distal to the catheter tip position was possible.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of carbon dioxide in combination with a bright blood MR imaging sequence improves vessel conspicuity and provides immediate information about blood flow distal to the catheter. This technique may be used to facilitate MR imaging-guided intravascular procedures.
Wacker
Frank K
FK
Department of Radiology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106, USA. wackerfrank@web.de
Maes
Robbert M
RM
Jesberger
Jack A
JA
Nour
Sherif G
SG
Duerk
Jeffrey L
JL
Lewin
Jonathan S
JS
D000818:Animals; D001011:Aorta / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D002245:Carbon Dioxide / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007269:Injections, Intra-Arterial; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D012077:Renal Artery / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D013552:Swine
D003287:Contrast Media; D002245:Carbon Dioxide