Improved coverage in dynamic contrast‐enhanced cardiac MRI using interleaved gradient‐echo EPI

Abstract

An interleaved gradient‐echo echo‐planar imaging (IGEPI) sequence was modified for and applied to dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging of the heart. Using IGEPI, images with 3.0 × 3.9 mm nominal in‐plane resolution are acquired in 100 ms, enabling eight slices per heartbeat for a heart rate of 60 beats/min. The acquisition speed and use of saturation pre‐pulses allows acquisition of short‐ and long‐axis images during the same contrast bolus. IGEPI maintains the acquisition characteristics required for performing a quantitative first‐pass perfusion analysis as well as providing improved coverage compared with conventional fast gradient echo.