High-Resolution Neurovascular Imaging at 7T: Arterial Spin Labeling Perfusion, 4-Dimensional MR Angiography, and Black Blood MR Imaging.

Ultrahigh field offers increased resolution and contrast for neurovascular imaging. Arterial spin labeling methods benefit from an increased intrinsic signal-to-noise ratio of MR imaging signal and a prolonged tracer half-life at ultrahigh field, allowing the visualization of layer-dependent microvascular perfusion. Arterial spin labeling-based time-resolved 4-dimensional MR angiography at 7T provides a detailed depiction of the vascular architecture and dynamic blood flow pattern with high spatial and temporal resolutions. High-resolution black blood MR imaging at 7T allows detailed characterization of small perforating arteries such as lenticulostriate arteries. All techniques benefit from advances in parallel radiofrequency transmission technologies at ultrahigh field.