Three-dimensional true-FISP imaging of the coronary arteries: improved contrast with T2-preparation.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of a T2-magnetization preparation scheme for improving coronary artery imaging with true fast imaging with steady-state precession (True-FISP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Simulations were performed to compare the blood-myocardium signal difference with no T2-preparation to that with various T2-preparation times (24, 40, and 60 msec) using an electrocardiogram (ECG)-triggered, segmented True-FISP acquisition. Seven volunteers were imaged to evaluate the effectiveness of T2-preparation for coronary artery delineation using True- FISP and to optimize the T2-preparation time.

RESULTS

Simulations showed that T2-preparation improved the signal difference between blood and myocardium over that without T2-preparation. The optimal T2- preparation time was determined to be 40 msec. In volunteer studies, a T2- preparation time of 40 msec provided a significant improvement in contrast- to-noise ratio (CNR) between the coronary arteries and myocardium over that without T2-preparation. It also showed a significant improvement in visualizing the distal portions of the coronary arteries.

CONCLUSION

T2-preparation improves coronary artery delineation with True-FISP.