Abstract: In PCMR (phase contrast magnetic resonance) images, velocity aliasing appears when the maximum velocity in the imaging region is larger than the VENC (velocity encoding) value. Without correction, the aliasing will lead to distorted measurements. A method and system for velocity aliasing correction are described in this invention. The aliasing correction can improve the accuracy of flow quantization with the PCMR technique.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described for optimizing particular protocol parameters used in phase contrast magnetic resonance (PCMR) imaging. Optimal settings for PCMR protocol parameters such as coordinates, field of view (FOV), frequency/phase encoding lines, number of excitations (NEX), slice thickness, views per segment (VPS), and coil setting may be determined based upon the cut position/orientation of an image containing a vessel of interest, vessel size, length of the vessel segment, and heart rate. An optimal velocity encoding gradient (VENC) for PCMR may also be determined that both avoids aliasing and ensures an adequate signal-to-noise ratio.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for presenting anatomical and blood flow information contained in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) dataset. A three-dimensional (3D) representation of blood flow is generated which varies with time, referred to herein as a four-dimensional (4D) presentation or display. The system allows the visualization of the dynamics of blood flow and the visualization of anatomical information via the fusion of different types of MRI data sets.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for evaluating symptomatic vertebrobasilar disease VBD which uses quantitative hemodynamic assessment in order to identify patients at high risk for stroke and provide appropriate guidance for intervention. Patients with symptomatic VBD may be considered for intervention to provide blood flow augmentation if evidence of sufficient flow compromise is present as defined by specific flow criteria, and treated medically otherwise.

Abstract: A method and system are described for image registration using an information theoretic approach that can be used for correcting motion in blood flow studies as well as other applications. The joint probability distribution between two MRI (or other modality) images is estimated where the interpolation method is referred to as a continuous histogram.

Abstract: A method and system are described for compensating for the phase error in PCMR images due to eddy current effects. The phase noise due to eddy currents may be measured and characterized from phase images at selected regions near a vessel of interest.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for evaluating symptomatic VBD which uses quantitative hemodynamic assessment in order to identify patients at high risk for stroke and provide appropriate guidance for intervention. Patients with symptomatic VBD may be considered for intervention to provide blood flow augmentation if evidence of sufficient flow compromise is present as defined by specific flow criteria, and treated medically otherwise.