Pulmonary MR angiography techniques and applications.
This article discusses the role of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in evaluating the pulmonary arterial system. For depiction of pulmonary arterial anatomy and morphology, MRA techniques are compared with CT angiography and digital subtraction x-ray angiography. Perfusion, flow, and function are emphasized, as the integrated MR examination offers a comprehensive assessment of vascular morphology and function. Advances in MR technology that improve spatial and temporal resolution and compensate for potential artifacts are reviewed as they pertain to pulmonary MRA. Current and emerging gadolinium contrast-enhanced and non-contrast-enhanced MRA techniques are discussed. The role of pulmonary MRA, clinical protocols, imaging findings, and interpretation pitfalls are reviewed for clinical indications.
Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, 560 First Avenue, TCH-HW202, New York, NY 10016, USA. elizabeth.hecht@nyumc.org
Elizabeth M
EM
Hecht
Andrew
A
Rosenkrantz
D003287:Contrast Media; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D011652:Pulmonary Circulation
D003287:Contrast Media