Abstract and Introduction
Many of the shortcomings of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are due to conventional maximum intensity projection (MIP) rendering, rather than the limitaitons of of the MR acquisition technique. When used appropriately, advanced rendering techniques can improve the quality and accuracy of MRA. This article addresses the techniques of limited volume MIP, hard threshold three-dimensional, and volume rendering and the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is typically rendered with whole volume maximum intensity projection (MIP) techniques. While ubiquitously available, user-friendly, and essentially automatic, MIP depiction is not ideal for all circumstances. Many of the shortcomings of MRA are attributable to conventional MIP rendering, rather than the limitations of the MR scan acquisition technique. Utilization of advanced rendering techniques, such as limited volume MIP, hard thresholded three-dimensional (3D), and volume-rendering, can improve the accuracy and acceptance of MRA in clinical practice.
Appl Radiol. 2002;31(5) © 2002 Anderson Publishing, Ltd.
Dr. Tanenbaum has disclosed that he has relationships with the following companies: GE Medical Systems, Inc. and Bracco Diagnostics through their Speakers' Bureaus.
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