Abstract: A procedure and apparatus are provided which allow rapid positional change in the patient centering in order to facilitate the imaging of blood vessels in a series of different views. This procedure and apparatus can also facilitate the imaging of other tissues of the body at different spatial locations as well. The procedure and apparatus reduce the time required for obtaining the necessary images for a medical imaging examination using a single injection of an MRI or iodinated contrast agent.

Abstract: A three-dimensional method of imaging the coronary arteries and coronary artery bypass grafts using a catheter contrast enhanced technique. The method involves the percutaneous placement of a catheter via the lower or upper extremity arterial circulation and engaging the distal end of the catheter into the aortic root with subsequent injection of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or iodinated contrast agent and performing rapid first pass imaging with either magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or computed tomographic angiography (CTA) techniques, respectively. Furthermore, a three dimensional catheter is used which includes a plurality of small distal round openings which are situated at the immediate distal end of the catheter near the small end-hole opening. The immediate distal end of the catheter is pre-formed having a memory and a three-dimensional, instead of a two-dimensional, curve to enhance the delivery of contrast to the aortic root for subsequent delivery of contrast to the coronary arteries.

Abstract: An examination table for use with an imaging device is provided with a rolling track on an upper surface of a platform. A table is supported on the rolling track for movement relative to the platform. The imaging machine includes lower coils which are supported under the table and upper coils which are supported on the platform. The table and the rolling track are made from a non-ferromagnetic material so as not to interfere with the coils. The examination table can also be used with other imaging machines such as computed tomography and x-ray machines.