Coronary artery imaging: 3D segmented k-space data acquisition with multiple breath-holds and real-time slab following

J Magn Reson Imaging. 2001 Feb;13(2):301-7. doi: 10.1002/1522-2586(200102)13:2<301::aid-jmri1043>3.0.co;2-8.

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to develop a multiple-breath-hold (BH) imaging method for coronary arteries in which a segment of k-space is acquired in each BH. The goal was to increase the resolution, or the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and coverage, of three-dimensional-(3D)-BH volume-targeted scanning (VCATS). To correct for slab position differences, a real-time slab following technique using navigator echoes for motion detection was used. Sixteen normal volunteers were imaged to compare the method with a single-BH scan. Results showed that higher resolution, or larger coverage and higher SNR, were achieved by the multiple-BH method without respiratory motion artifacts. In conclusion, 3D segmented k-space data acquisition with multiple-BHs and real-time slab following is a promising approach for extending the capabilities of VCATS further.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Coronary Disease / diagnosis
  • Coronary Vessels / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement*
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional*
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / methods*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Reference Values