Karl P Kunze1, Christoph Rischpler1, Markus Schwaiger1, and Stephan G Nekolla1
This abstract proposes a new B-spline based approach for model-independent deconvolution of myocardial DCE-MRI perfusion data and the reconstruction of the vascular transit time distribution function. It allows the model-independent quantification of vascular mean transit time and vascular transit time heterogeneity, whose relationship is of importance in understanding the implications of different ischemic microvascular disease patterns. The presented algorithm was tested in simulations and showed stability for the range of perfusion parameters expected under stress conditions. 12 DCE-MRI patient datasets from adenosine stress examinations were analyzed, showing a steady increase of heterogeneity with mean transit time.
