Abstract #4477

High-Resolution MR Imaging and Angiography of Fingers Using a Dedicated Phased Array Coil at 3T

Wingchi Edmund Kwok¹,², Zhigang You¹, Gwysuk Seo³, Johnny Monu³

¹Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; ²Rochester Center for Brain Imaging, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; ³Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States

To achieve high-resolution finger MR imaging and angiography of both the distal and proximal interphalangeal joints, we developed a dedicated phased array RF receive coil at 3T. It supported imaging with isotropic resolution of 200 microns and angiography with resolution much higher than previously reported, revealing detailed anatomical structures and blood vessels inside the finger. With this coil, the imaged finger orients along the magnet bore. This provides comfort of use to the subject, minimizing motion and allowing longer scan time. Our technique should be useful for the diagnosis, treatment assessment and pathogenesis studies of arthritis and systemic sclerosis.