Magnetic resonance imaging of the lung with a volumetric interpolated 3D-gradient echo sequence

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of a magnetic resonance imaging prot ocol for the lung using a volumetric interpolated 3D-gradient echo sequence (3D-GRE). Subjects and Methods: A T-1-weighted 3D-GRE sequence was used fo r volumetric interpolated breath-hold examinations ("VIBE") of the lung in twelve healthy volunteers (TR/TE 4.5/1.9 ms, flip-angle 12 degrees, matrix 502x512 [interpolated]). Three coronal 80 mm slabs (16 partitions, 2.5 mm s lices) were added to 3D data sets for multi-planar reformations. No contras t material was applied. Artifacts and resolution of vessel and airway struc tures in each lung segment were evaluated by two observers (12 volunteers, 228 lung segments). Results: The protocol provided excellent images of vasc ular and tracheo-bronchial structures with very moderate pulsation artifact s. 224/228 lung segments were imaged with "good" (146/228) or "sufficient" quality (78/228). Segmental and sub-segmental vessels (5(th) order) were id entified due to bright flow signal without administration of contrast mater ial. Walls of segmental bronchi (3(rd) order) were delineated in all parts of the lung. Conclusions: The high spatial resolution, the excellent visual ization of lung anatomy, the low rate of artifacts without respiratory trig gering and the short acquisition times are clear advantages of the 3D-GRE ( VIBE) sequence compared to existing 2D-GRE strategies for MRI of the lung.