Ulrike I. Attenberger MD, Presenter: Research Consultant, Bayer AG

1) To describe the technical pre-requisites for successful contrast and non-contrast-enhanced renal MRA (i.e. signal-to-noise-ratio, scan time, spatial resolution, voxel size). 2) To review contrast-agent dose optimization strategies. 3) To understand the basics of functional renal MR imaging techniques and to illustrate their potential implications on patient care.

Due to technical advances such as higher field strengths, parallel imaging techniques, and dedicated multi-element coils, contrast-enhanced (CE-MRA) has become a robust and valuable diagnostic tool for the assessment of the renal vasculature. Driven by the advent of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), interest in low-dose CE-MRA protocols and non-enhanced MRA techniques is greater than ever. In addition to the assessment of the renal vasculature by MRA, functional MRI techniques such as perfusion or diffusion-weighted imaging allow for a non-invasive, radiation-free functional assessment of the kidneys. This is of particular interest for patients with impaired renal function but without any signs of vascular pathology. With the implementation of functional MRA techniques, changes in kidney function can be assessed even in the absence of any vascular pathology. The focus of this presentation is to summarize current state-of-the-art techniques for contrast and non-contrast-enhanced MRA as well as functional MRI of the kidney with a special focus on technical prerequisites, a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of various techniques, and perspectives on future developments.

Attenberger, U, Renal MRA and Functional MRI.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14001997.html