Cine flow measurements using phase contrast with undersampled projections: In vitro validation and preliminary results in vivo

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the accuracy of flow measurements in vitro and in vivo during scan times shorter than a breath-hold using a 2D cine phase contrast (PC) undersampled radial acquisition method, which may be useful for measuring flow, especially in vessels subject to motion during respiration. Materials and Methods: For in vitro assessment, a flow phantom was imaged at various flow rates and undersampling factors. For in vivo assessment, five normal subjects were imaged and the flow rate in the aorta was compared with the sum of the flow rates in the iliac arteries. Results: For results in vitro, the accuracy of flow measurements was maintained with scan times as low as 13-17 seconds. For results in vivo, scans acquired in less than 25 seconds provided flow measurements in the aorta that corresponded well to the sum of flow measurements in the iliac arteries. Conclusion: The undersampled radial acquisition cine PC technique provided accurate flow measurements in a flow phantom and in healthy human volunteers in scan times shorter than a typical breath-hold. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.