High-Resolution, Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Angiography With Elliptical Centric k-Space Ordering of Supra-aortic Arteries Compared With Selective X-Ray Angiography

• DOI: 10.1161/01.str.0000016972.70366.d6
• Publication Date: 2002-07-27T13:02:05Z
• Authors: Ralf Wutke; Werner Lang; Claudia Fellner; Rolf Janka; Christan Denzel; Michael Lell; Werner Bautz; Franz A. Fellner
• Keywords: Magnetic resonance angiography; Circle of Willis

Background and Purpose — The objective of this study was to evaluate the relative value high-resolution, contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE MRA) with elliptical centric k-space ordering compared intra-arterial x-ray for imaging carotid stenosis. Methods Thirty patients suspected stenosis arteries were examined CE MRA (1.5-T scanner) (aortic arch survey selective both common arteries). For first time, not only extracranial bifurcation but all vessel segments from aortic circle Willis assessed by independent investigators. Results internal artery in region bifurcation, there a very close correlation between (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 92%). initially overestimation on 3 cases ultimately revealed be an underestimation angiography. showed slightly poorer basal at level (because breathing artifacts) intracranial small caliber venous superimposition due delayed sequence starts). Conclusions technique described here provides reliable results diagnosis is thus suitable replacing invasive conventional method most cases. Further technical developments regard spatial resolution are still required improved visualization vessels (terminal branches vessels).