Imaging the microvessel caliber and density: Principles and applications of microvascular MRI

摘要: Twenty years ago, theoretical developments were initiated to model the behavior of NMR transverse relaxation rates in presence vessels. These enabled MRI-based mapping mean vessel diameter, microvascular density, and size index with comparable results those obtained by a pathologist. The transfer these techniques routine clinical use has been hindered unavailability required sequences, namely fast gradient-echo spin-echo sequences. Based on increasing accessibility such sequences MRI scanners over recent years, we review principles governing MRI, validation studies, applications that have tested worldwide several teams. We also provide some recommendations how measure microvessel caliber density MRI.