Continuous arterial spin labeling using a local magnetic field gradient coil

Continuous arterial spin labeling (ASL) using a locally induced magnetic field gradient for adiabatic inversion of spins in the common carotid artery of human volunteers is demonstrated. The experimental setup consisted of a helmet resonator for imaging, a circular RF surface coil for labeling, and gradient loops to produce a magnetic field gradient. A spin-echo [SE) echo-planar imaging (EPI) sequence was used for imaging. The approach is independent of the gradients of the MR scanner. This technology may be used if the imaging gradient system does not produce an appropriate magnetic field gradient at the location of the carotid artery-for example, in a head-only scanner-and is a prerequisite for the development of a system that allows continuous labeling during the imaging experiment. (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.