A New Method for Selective Dynamic MRI Angiography using Arterial Spin Labeling

Introduction Selective arterial angiographic information is conventionally achieved using x-ray based digital subtraction angiography (DSA), in which radio-opaque contrast agent is injected under x-ray guidance via a catheter. These x-ray DSA methods are invasive, labor intensive, and carry risks to the patient, most significantly a risk of stroke. For these reasons the valuable dynamic flow information that x-ray DSA can provide is often limited to a single examination, and to major centers with neurosurgical back-up where clinical risk is outweighed by the potential patient benefit. Here we demonstrate a non-invasive method, based on selective arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI, that can be used multiple times during disease assessment or treatment, and in a wider range of patients.