Distinguishing high-flow from low-flow XXXX using maximum intensity projection images in dynamic magnetic resonance angiography - comparison to other MR-based techniques.

@entity1 @entity1462 @entity600
BACKGROUND: In addition to ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered a suitable, non-invasive technique to assess the type and extent of @entity1462 . The distinction between low- and high-flow lesions is crucial because it determines appropriate @entity1 treatment. PURPOSE: To distinguish high-flow from low-flow lesions on the basis of the enhancement pattern on MIP images acquired from dynamic time-resolved MR angiography (MRA) and compare it with previously described MR-based methods. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We examined 25 consecutive @entity1 with previously diagnosed @entity1462 . Next, each @entity600 was classified as "high-flow" or "low-flow" using the following criteria: (i) findings on T1-weighted (T1W) and T2-weighted (T2W) imaging (signal voids, signal intensity); (ii) the time interval between the start of arterial enhancement and the onset of lesion enhancement (artery-lesion time); (iii) the time of maximum lesion enhancement; and (iv) analysis of the slope of the enhancement curve. RESULTS: Of the 25 @entity1 , seven had high-flow and 18 had @entity600 . Signal voids on spin-echo T1W images were observed only in four of seven high-flow @entity600 and in two of 18 @entity600 . Analysis of signal intensity on T2W images showed increased signal intensity in 17 of 18 @entity600 , and in two of seven high-flow lesions. Calculation of the artery-lesion time, maximum enhancement time, and slope revealed significant differences between the high- and low-flow groups. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the slope of the enhancement curve appears to be useful in distinguishing between high- and low-flow @entity1462 . Standardization of MR image evaluation criteria is essential.
