A preliminary study of real-time imaging for MR guided vascular intervention and image quality assessment

Abstract

Abstract Background: Real-time MRI provides radiation-free alternative to X-ray guided interventions, enables superb tissue imaging without administration of contrast agents. In this study, we proposed an 3T MRI system, and evaluated the image quality of real-time sequences for MR compatible guidewire and balloon.Methods: MR guided intervention system were setup with 3T MR scanner and MR compatible monitor. Real-time sequences (FLASH and TrueFISP) were optimized and evaluated in the interventional procedure with a 3D printing aortic phantom, MR compatible guidewire and balloon catheter. After the images were obtained, the image quality was evaluated objectively, and subjectively. T tests was used to analyse the results.Results: The temporal resolution of both sequences were 2 frames/s and spatial resolution was 1.1mm×1.1mm×10mm. For objective assessment, the TrueFISP sequence showed higher SNR and CNR than the FLASH sequence. Image uniformity and geometric distortion did not show significant difference. The subjective scores showed FLASH was higher than TrueFISP, because of moderate artefacts of guidewire and good visualization of balloon catheter.Conclusions: In conclusion, the study demonstrates the MR real-time imaging, FLAH sequence, is feasible of guiding cardiovascular interventions.