The long acquisition times of FLAIR sequences have been radically shortened adopting the same technique as that used in fast spin-echo sequences. Selection and coupling of sequence parameters are currently under investigation. Manufacturers have adopted different solutions either aimed at reducing acquisition times or at suppressing the CSF signal completely.
This paper investigates the technical features of FLAIR sequences, particularly the latest fast version. These sequences were developed to display deep-seated lesions in the periventricular and subcortical regions of the brain. Given their long inversion time, FLAIR sequences allow selective suppression of the cerebrospinal fluid signal. The repetition time of the sequences being several thousands of ms combined with the long echo times maintain constant T2-weighting for the brain parenchyma. The long acquisition times of FLAIR sequences have been radically shortened adopting the same technique as that used in fast spin-echo sequences. Selection and coupling of sequence parameters are currently under investigation. Manufacturers have adopted different solutions either aimed at reducing acquisition times or at suppressing the CSF signal completely. Fast FLAIR sequences have recently become the technique of choice to monitor multifocal demyelinating disease. Other applications being tested by different institutions in other diseases will offer new insights into the advantages of this technique.
Fast fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FFLAIR) sequences | Le sequenze fast fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FFLAIR)
Prinster A
1998
Abstract
This paper investigates the technical features of FLAIR sequences, particularly the latest fast version. These sequences were developed to display deep-seated lesions in the periventricular and subcortical regions of the brain. Given their long inversion time, FLAIR sequences allow selective suppression of the cerebrospinal fluid signal. The repetition time of the sequences being several thousands of ms combined with the long echo times maintain constant T2-weighting for the brain parenchyma. The long acquisition times of FLAIR sequences have been radically shortened adopting the same technique as that used in fast spin-echo sequences. Selection and coupling of sequence parameters are currently under investigation. Manufacturers have adopted different solutions either aimed at reducing acquisition times or at suppressing the CSF signal completely. Fast FLAIR sequences have recently become the technique of choice to monitor multifocal demyelinating disease. Other applications being tested by different institutions in other diseases will offer new insights into the advantages of this technique.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
