Vascular mapping using albumin-(Gd-DTPA), an intravascular MR contrast agent, and projection MR imaging.

An intravascular magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agent is valuable for vascular mapping of tissues when used in combination with projection spin-echo MR imaging. The primary advantage of using projection imaging lies in its global depiction of anatomy. Also, relatively short echo time values can be readily achieved, reducing flow dephasing signal losses from blood and increasing overall signal-to-noise. These advantages, coupled with the reduction of blood pool T1 values due to the presence of the intravascular contrast agent, allow for detailed spatial mapping of slow-flow vascular structures using MR.