Initial imaging recommendations for Vasovist angiography.

Abstract

Vasovist is a newly developed blood pool contrast agent for MR angiogiography (MRA). It consists of a low molecular weight molecule, chelated to Gadolinium, that strongly binds to plasma proteins, thus increasing its relaxivity and retention time in the vascular system. Due to its high efficiency, a smaller dose compared to existing Extracellular Fluid Contrast Agents is sufficient for diagnostic purposes, resulting in a lower injection volume. With appropriate adjustments of standard extracellular contrast injection protocols, a dynamic phase MRA can be achieved using routine MRA parameters. For extended phase imaging, ('steady-state') starting approximately 3 to 5 min post injection, repetition time (TR) and flip angle may be adjusted for optimization of intravascular signal. Preliminary technical recommendations for the optimization of contrast-enhanced MRA with Vasovist can be deducted from current clinical trial experience in various vessel beds.