Renal arteries: evaluation with optimized 2D and 3D time-of-flight MR angiography.

PURPOSE

To compare two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) time-of-flight (TOF) techniques in magnetic resonance (MR) angiography of renal arteries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 46 patients, MR angiography was performed with 3D tilted optimized non-saturating excitation (TONE), 3D fast imaging with steady precession (FISP), and 2D fast low-angle shot (FLASH) during breath holding. Intraarterial angiography was used as a reference. MR angiograms were evaluated for stenoses, length of renal arteries, accessory arteries, venous overlap, and image quality.

RESULTS

The 3D TONE sequence was best for detection of severe stenoses (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 89%), delineation of accessory arteries, and image quality. Overlap of renal veins was the most important disadvantage of 2D FLASH. Decreased saturation effects, however, can be advantageous in 2D TOF imaging.

CONCLUSION

Use of the 3D TONE sequence provided improved image quality and diagnostic value compared with 3D FISP technique. The 2D TOF sequence can be useful in combination with the 3D TONE sequence.