Contrast-enhanced MR angiography.

Magnetic resonance (MR) angiography, although still in its infancy, is recognized as a valuable diagnostic tool. Investigation of the utility of contrast media as applied to MR angiography is, to no surprise, preliminary. In restricted instances, with present techniques, contrast media-enhanced MR angiography can provide additional valuable diagnostic information. Inspection of two-dimensional images (as opposed to three-dimensional projections) and comparison of MR images before and after administration of contrast agent are particularly important. Improved visualization of intracranial aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, venous anomalies, and arterial occlusions has been demonstrated on three-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiograms after intravenous administration of a gadolinium chelate, relative to studies performed before administration of the contrast agent.