SELECTIVE MR-ANGIOGRAPHY OF THE LIVER

Objective: Two-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography was done with a 1.0 T whole-body imaging system. Methods: The 10 mm thick presaturation slab was positioned between two sagittal imaging slices of the liver. Images were obtained through the right lobe of the liver by moving the slab and slices together. Each image was acquired during a breath-holding interval of 16 s. Results: Since the directions of the portal and hepatic venous flows are opposite to each other in the right lobe, these two venous systems could be visualized on separate images by the interleaved presaturation slab. On the reconstructed angiograms, separation between the two venous systems was complete and even the fourth and fifth branches were demonstrated clearly. These images facilitate clear understanding of the structure of the intrahepatic blood vessels. Conclusion: Although this technique is limited to volunteer studies and works only on the right lobe of the liver, it will provide valuable information for evaluating the location and vascular involvement in various liver diseases.