Transport of contrast agents in contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography

Magn Reson Imaging. 2004 May;22(4):495-504. doi: 10.1016/j.mri.2004.01.034.

Abstract

Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CEMRA) often appears to display vessels with good resolution, but it does not adequately visualize the throat of a tight stenosis. Image quality in CEMRA is also governed by the timing of contrast injection and data acquisition. We developed a numerical technique to predict the image appearance of a target vessel by taking into account the passage of contrast agent. Experiments were conducted on a phantom with both centric and linear ordering. An effort to prolong the duration in which the contrast passes by employing a double injection technique gives a wider window of opportunity to acquire quality images.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biological Transport
  • Blood Flow Velocity / drug effects
  • Carotid Artery, Common / drug effects
  • Carotid Artery, Common / physiopathology
  • Carotid Stenosis / diagnosis
  • Carotid Stenosis / metabolism
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Contrast Media / pharmacokinetics*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography* / methods
  • Phantoms, Imaging
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Contrast Media