Two-dimensional magnetic resonance digital subtraction angiography using array spatial sensitivity encoding techniques in the assessment of intracranial hemodynamics

OBJECTIVE: Array spatial sensitivity encoding techniques (ASSET) were employed to improve the temporal resolution of two-dimensional (2D) thick-slice contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance digital subtraction angiography (MRDSA). METHODS: 2D MRDSA using ASSET was performed in 28 patients via fast spoiled gradient-echo sequence (TR/TE 5.4/1.5 ms; FA 60; FOV 24x24 cm; matrix size 256x256; slicethickness 50-70 mm), followed by a bolus injection of gadolinium chelate and subsequent saline flush, for 40 seconds on a sagittal plane. Images were evaluated for visualization of normal intracranial vessels and brain lesions utilizing a three-point scale; additionally, in 10 of the 28 patients, results were compared with those of conventional 2D MRDSA. RESULTS: 2D MRDSA using ASSET, which improved temporal resolution from 1.45 to 0.77 seconds, displayed image quality comparable to that of conventional 2D MRDSA. Moreover, this technique afforded superior detectability with respect to early venous filling in patients with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). CONCLUSION: ASSET improves the temporal resolution of 2D MRDSA without compromising spatial resolution.