Improved Temporal Resolution and Reduced Geometric Distortions Using Interleaved 3D Spiral Acquisition for Arterial Spin Labeling Imaging

Youngkyoo Jung¹, ², Megan Johnston²

3D ASL imaging provides high SNR benefit over 2D methods. Segmented 3D acquisition methods covering the entire k-space during multiple labeling periods are often preferred to reduce blurring in the slice encoding direction. However, applications of the segmented acquisition are limited to baseline perfusion imaging. We propose an interleaved 3D spiral FLASH imaging method that collects the entire k-space within a single labeling period which offers high temporal resolution, and reduces geometric distortions. We also investigated the trade-off between the number of interleaves and SNR benefit. The proposed method would be beneficial to various ASL applications.