Multiple flip angle MRA: data acquisition and post-processing

We have implemented a MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) data acquisition and post processing method to improve the assessment of the carotid artery bifurcation needed for correct diagnosis. Axial high resolution MRA images were acquired using 3D time-of-flight (TOF) MRA technique with a multiple flip angle. Composite MRA images of these data sets with at least two different flip angles were created using a MIP (maximum intensity projection) algorithm and formatted into sagittal angiographic projections. Next, color coded MRA images were created using a MIP segmentation algorithm. The resulting images demonstrated improved image quality of the carotid bifurcation. These post-processed MRA images also demonstrate significant increase in the SNR within the carotid bifurcation (p<0.05)