Feasibility study of ECG-triggered non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography of lower extremities

Twelve healthy volunteers underwent ECG-triggered non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography (NCE-MRV) of lower extremities on a 1.5T MR scanner. Image quality was assessed quantitatively and qualitatively with a 17-segment model. ECG-triggered (NCE-MRV) was successfully performed in all patients. Mean signal to noise ratio and contrast to noise ratio of lower extremities were 66±23 and 53±22 respectively. Excellent and good image qualities were achieved in 62% and 31% of all segments respectively without non-evaluable segment. Thus ECG-triggered NCE-MRV of lower extremities is feasible with reliable image quality. Key words: Phlebography; Magnetic resonance imaging