MRI of the lung (3/3)-current applications and future perspectives

Jürgen Biederer, S Mirsadraee, M Beer, F Molinari, C Hintze, G Bauman, M Both, E J R Van Beek, J Wild, M Puderbach

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background
MRI of the lung is recommended in a number of clinical indications. Having a non-radiation alternative is particularly attractive in children and young subjects, or pregnant women.

Methods
Provided there is sufficient expertise, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be considered as the preferential modality in specific clinical conditions such as cystic fibrosis and acute pulmonary embolism, since additional functional information on respiratory mechanics and regional lung perfusion is provided. In other cases, such as tumours and pneumonia in children, lung MRI may be considered an alternative or adjunct to other modalities with at least similar diagnostic value.

Results
In interstitial lung disease, the clinical utility of MRI remains to be proven, but it could provide additional information that will be beneficial in research, or at some stage in clinical practice. Customised protocols for chest imaging combine fast breath-hold acquisitions from a “buffet” of sequences. Having introduced details of imaging protocols in previous articles, the aim of this manuscript is to discuss the advantages and limitations of lung MRI in current clinical practice.

Conclusion
New developments and future perspectives such as motion-compensated imaging with self-navigated sequences or fast Fourier decomposition MRI for non-contrast enhanced ventilation- and perfusion-weighted imaging of the lung are discussed.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)373-386
Number of pages14
JournalInsights into Imaging
Volume3
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2012

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