Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Fluorine in Rats Infused with Artificial Blood

Abstract

An MRI pulse sequence was developed that enables the visualization of a perfluorocarbon (PFC) emulsion in the vascular system of rats. Images were made at 0.12T [tesla] on a clinical imaging system using a small receiver coil, at intervals of .apprx. 2 h, 2 days, 2 wk and 2 mo. after replacement of 50% of total blood volume. The most successful technique produced PA [posteroanterior] projections of the entire torso for both the F and proton components. Direct comparison allowed identification of PFC in heart, lung, liver, spleen and large vessels both in vivo and postmortem. Potential clinical applications to vascular imaging are discussed.