MAGNETIC-RESONANCE ANGIOGRAPHY OF THE CAROTID-ARTERY - ARTIFACTS, ANATOMY, DISEASES

Magnetic resonance angiography is now a technique commonly used in neu rologic practice. We give a brief overview of the biophysical principl es of this technique. Recent refinements and technical innovations are also noted. After some anatomic considerations about the carotid arte ry, we provide some data about the role of MRA in atherosclerotic and non atherosclerotic diseases (dissections, aneurysms, arteritis, post operative follow-up...) of the extra and intracranial carotid arteries . The purpose of this review is to concentrate on the role of magnetic resonance angiography in patients with various carotid artery disease s and to specify possibilities, limitations and risk of misinterpretat ion. Magnetic resonance angiography is a major, still evolving techniq ue.