Vessel architecture imaging using multiband gradient-echo/spin-echo EPI

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220939
• Publication Date: 2019-08-09T17:32:05Z
• Authors: Ke Zhang; Seong Dae Yun; Simon M. F. Triphan; Volker J. Sturm; Lukas R. Buschle; Artur Hahn; Sabine Heiland; Martin Bendszus; Heinz-Peter Schle...; N. Jon Shah; Christian H. Ziener; Felix T. Kurz
• Keywords: Aliasing; Flip angle

Objectives To apply the MB (multiband) excitation and blipped-CAIPI (blipped-controlled aliasing in parallel imaging) techniques a spin gradient-echo (SAGE) EPI sequence to improve slice coverage for vessel architecture imaging (VAI). Materials methods Both with in-plane were incorporated into (GE)/spin-echo (SE) simultaneous tracking of dynamic MR signal changes both GE SE contrasts after injection contrast agent. singleband (SB) compared using 20-channel head coil at 3 Tesla, high-resolution VAI could be performed 32 glioma patients. Results Whole-brain covered high resolution can achieved applying multiband factor 2 3. The quality images resulting from acceleration was comparable those SB method: reconstructed without any loss spatial or severe distortions. In addition, signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) similar. A relative low g-factor induced method technique (1.35 1.33 imaging). Performing quantitative VAI, we found that, among all parametric maps, microvessel type indicator (MTI), distance map (I) vascular-induced bolus peak-time shift (VIPS) highly correlated. Likewise, maps slope, slope length short axis Conclusions Multiband accelerated SAGE successfully doubles number readout slices same measurement time when conventional sequences. corresponding provide insights complexity heterogeneity vascular glioma.