• M Dobritz, T Radkow, M Nittka, W Bautz, and F A Fellner.
• Institut für Diagnostische Radiologie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany. martin.dobritz@idr.imed.uni-erlangen.de
• Rofo. 2002 Jun 1; 174 (6): 738-41.

PurposeThe VIBE (volume interpolated breath-hold examination) sequence in combination with parallel acquisition technique (iPAT: integrated parallel acquisition technique) allows dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI of the liver with high temporal and spatial resolution. The aim of this study was to obtain first clinical experience with this technique for the detection and characterization of focal liver lesions.Materials And MethodsWe examined 10 consecutive patients using a 1.5 T MR system (gradient field strength 30 mT/m) with a phased-array coil combination. Following sequences were acquired: T 2 -w TSE and T 1 -w FLASH, after administration of gadolinium, 6 VIBE sequences with iPAT (TR/TE/matrix/partition thickness/time of acquisition: 6.2 ms/ 3.2 ms/256 x 192/4 mm/13 s), as well as T 1 -weighted FLASH with fat saturation. Two observers evaluated the different sequences concerning the number of lesions and their dignity. Following lesions were found: hepatocellular carcinoma (5 patients), hemangioma (2), metastasis (1), cyst (1), adenoma (1).ResultsThe VIBE sequences were superior for the detection of lesions with arterial hyperperfusion with a total of 33 focal lesions. 21 lesions were found with T 2 -w TSE and 20 with plain T 1 -weighted FLASH. Diagnostic accuracy increased with the VIBE sequence in comparison to the other sequences.ConclusionVIBE with iPAT allows MR imaging of the liver with high spatial and temporal resolution providing dynamic contrast-enhanced information about the whole liver. This may lead to improved detection of liver lesions, especially hepatocellular carcinoma.

37 keywords...

hide…