Turbo-QUASAR: A Signal-To-Noise Optimal Arterial Spin Labeling and Sampling Strategy

Esben Thade Petersen¹, ², Jill Britt De Vis¹, Cornelis A.T. van den Berg², Jeroen Hendrikse¹

In this work an optimal labeling and acquisition scheme for Arterial Spin Labeling is proposed. Repeated pulsed labeling during a multi time-point Look-Locker readout, allow full-brain acquisition while keeping optimum perfusion signal. The method gained 2-5 times the temporal SNR as compared to existing pCASL sequences while at the same time providing information about auxiliary parameters needed for quantification such as bolus arrival time, tissue T1, and arterial input function and blood volume. The method which is an extension of the model-free QUASAR ASL sequence was dubbed Turbo-QUASAR and it will boost any pulsed labeling approach (Pulsed, Velocity- or Acceleration-selective).