In vivo assessment and visualization of intracranial arterial hemodynamics with flow-sensitized 4D MR imaging at 3T.
We evaluated electrocardiogram-synchronized flow-sensitized 4-dimensional MR imaging at 3T in combination with advanced 3D visualization strategies to ascertain its feasibility for the assessment of local intracranial blood-flow patterns in vivo. In large arteries of healthy volunteers, the temporal and spatial evolution of blood flow was successfully visualized and revealed--for example, a helical flow pattern in the carotid siphon. In a patient with steno-occlusive neurovascular disease, stagnant and retrograde flow patterns were readily visible.
Wetzel
S
S
Department of Medical Radiology, Institute of Neuroradiology, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
Meckel
S
S
Frydrychowicz
A
A
Bonati
L
L
Radue
E-W
EW
Scheffler
K
K
Hennig
J
J
Markl
M
M
D000328:Adult; D016893:Carotid Stenosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002536:Cerebral Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology* / Q000502:physiology; D002560:Cerebrovascular Circulation; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D013599:Systole; D017585:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Transcranial