Assessment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations with high temporal and spatial resolution contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography: a review from protocol to clinical application

Top Magn Reson Imaging. 2008 Oct;19(5):251-7. doi: 10.1097/RMR.0b013e3181a98d5f.

Abstract

The combination of high spatial and high temporal resolution contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) at 3.0 T has enabled the detailed evaluation of functional vascular anatomy and hemodynamics of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Key contributory technical factors for the successful implementation of MRA in patients with different vascular pathologies are multicoil and multichannel receiver arrays, which enable higher parallel acquisition at 3.0 T over a uniform and a large field of view for highly temporally and spatially resolved MRA. Magnetic resonance angiography enables both screening of patients with suspected AVMs and follow-up of patients after therapy. It allows the characterization of AVMs with respect to nidus configuration, size, venous drainage, and so on, according to the Spetzler-Martin classification.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnosis*
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media