INTRODUCTION OF FAST MR-IMAGING IN THE ASSESSMENT OF HEPATIC STEATOSIS

We determined the utility of fast gradient echo techniques (modified D ixon method) in the assessment of hepatic fat content, Fast spoiled gr adient echo was performed on bovine liver/corn oil homogenates with kn own fat fractions (FFE) to assess the accuracy of fat quantitation (FF MRI). The pulse sequence was manipulated via alterations in TE (echo t ime), TR (repetition time), and alpha (flip angle), In vivo studies we re then performed using breath-holding maneuvers on normal adult volun teers and subjects at risk to develop hepatic steatosis, with cystic f ibrosis or morbid obesity, At out-of-phase, TE, TR, and alpha were 2.1 ms, 7.3 ms, and 30-50 degrees and in-phase TE, TR, and Lu were 4.2 ms , 9.3 ms, and 30-50 degrees; FFMRI correlated well with FFE. An elevat ed fat fraction was observed in a high percentage of subjects with cys tic fibrosis and morbid obesity. Past gradient echo techniques were us ed successfully in the assessment of hepatic steatosis, The reduced ac quisition times permitted in vivo analysis on adults and children usin g breath hold maneuvers. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Inc.