Purpose: To evaluate centric ordered MR angiography with fluoroscopic triggering of renal artery disease.
Material and methods: 21 patients underwent MR-Angiography with a fluoroscopically triggered centric ordered sequence. The fluoroscopic trigger was obtained with the parameters that follow: TR/TE/TI: 1000/1.7/500 ms; NEX 1; MTX 141 x 256; SL 10mm; AT 0.83 s. The angiographic sequence was obtained with a CareBolus sequence (TR/TE: 3.9/1.5 ms; NEX 1; MTX 176 x 512; SL 1.1 mm; AT ~20s) after the intra-venous injection of 18 ml of Gd-BOPTA 0.5M followed by saline solution at a rate of 2.5 ml.s-1. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was obtained at the origin of the renal arteries. Statistical analysis was performed considering image quality, contrast media dose and the CNR.
Results: Ringing artifacts never occurred. The collaboration of the patient and the use of the earphones are critical to avoid motion artifacts. Renal veins have never been visualized. High CNR were noticed.
Conclusions: This technique allows a more efficient use of the contrast media. MRA with centric ordering and fluoroscopic triggering allows an optimal and easy assessment of the renal arteries.