Vessel Size Index and Cerebral Blood Volume Maps Using Hypercapnic Contrast at 3T

Thomas Christen¹, Georges Hankov¹, Heiko Schmiedeskamp¹, Roland Bammer¹, Greg Zaharchuk¹

The objective of this study was to use the variations in R2 and R2* relaxation times induced by the inhalation of carbogen (95% O2, 5% CO2) to create parametric maps of the Vessel Size Index and Cerebral Blood Volume. The use of a gradient and spin echo EPI sequence allowed the acquisition of VSI and CBV values simultaneously with a high temporal resolution. This enabled the determination of a stable period during which the estimates are accurate. The measurements were performed in 5 healthy volunteers at 3.0T and the values obtained were in accord with past studies.