Lung air spaces: MR imaging evaluation with hyperpolarized 3He gas.

de Lange, E E; Mugler, J P; Brookeman, J R; Knight-Scott, J; Truwit, J D; Teates, C D; Daniel, T M; Bogorad, P L et al. · Radiology · 1999

Where this comes from

Abstract

Thirty-two magnetic resonance imaging examinations of the lungs were performed in 16 subjects after inhalation of 1-2 L of helium 3 gas that was laser polarized to 10%-25%. The distribution of the gas was generally uniform, with visualization of the fissures in most cases. Ventilation defects were demonstrated in smokers and in a subject with allergies. The technique has potential for evaluating small airways disease.

Medical subject headings