Magnetic resonance angiography : physical principles and clinical applications

Abstract EN

For many decades, radiologic evaluation of vascular disease has been with contrast-enhanced x-ray angiography.

This requires catherization and the use of iodinated contrast, therefore, excluding patients with renal insufficiency and those who are severely allergic to the contrast.

The study is often performed in a single plane and, frequently, there is poor visualization of vessels distal to severe occlusive disease due to contrast dilution effects.

Over the past few years, Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRI) has emerged as an accurate modality among the available noninvasive methods for vascular imaging.

Three dimensional data acquisition with projections along multiple orientations and with quantitative flow information has improved our ability to accurately diagnose vascular disease.

The high spatial, high temporal resolution and patient acceptability has led many to further investigate the role of MR imaging in vascular disease.

Based on the early successes in carotid and intracranial MR angiography, new interest has emerged in imaging the abdominal and peripheral vessels.

Furthermore, an accurate display of the entire body vasculature has become feasible with the introduction of stepping table technology.