Three‐dimensional coronary MR angiography using zonal echo planar imaging

Abstract

Using an adapted two‐dimensional spatially selective RF excitation scheme, a novel yet practical three‐dimensional (3D) zonal echo‐planar imaging technique for MR coronary angiography has been developed. The robustness of the technique compared with the two‐dimensional (2D) segmented fast low angle shot (FLASH) method was evaluated using the right coronary artery images of 16 asymptomatic volunteers with a 0.5‐T mobile scanner. Each 3D acquisition required multiple breath‐holds, and real‐time navigator echoes were used to ensure consistent breath‐holding. Advantages of the technique include an improved signal‐to‐noise ratio, clearer depiction of tortuous coronary vessels due to decreased partial volume effects, and reduced motion blurring by the use of a short echo‐planar readout.