A novel approach to non-contrast, free-breathing functional lung MRI to generate dynamic measures of ventilation (V) and perfusion (Q).

<bold>Introduction:</bold> There is a need for sensitive measures of regional lung function that can be performed using standard imaging technology. We propose extending current free-breathing ¹H MRI analysis methods to provide novel measures of pulmonary V/Q. <bold>Aims:</bold> To demonstrate the application of VOxel-wise Lung VEntilation (VOLVE) analysis, a new MRI method for quantifying regional V and Q, in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). <bold>Methods:</bold> People with COPD (n=12) and healthy never smoker controls (n=12) were recruited to undergo a free-breathing fast field echo (FFE) MRI exam. VOLVE analysis was performed by comparing the respiratory and cardiac phase to the MRI signal in each lung voxel to generate ventilation- and perfusion-weighted correlation maps. As well as the correlation, the magnitude and delay of the V/Q response can be investigated. <bold>Results:</bold> Representative ventilation (CC_V) and perfusion (CC_Q) correlation maps are shown (Figure 1). Significant differences between the groups were found for the median CC_V (p<0.0001) and CC_Q (p<0.0001). <bold>Conclusion:</bold> The VOLVE method provides a novel assessment of lung function that is sensitive to lung disease, enabling V/Q assessment from a single, safe, cost-effective scan. <bold>Figure</bold> <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/OA5466/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig> Representative CC_V and CC_Q maps for a healthy volunteer (age 56, ♀) and COPD patient (age 57, ♂, FEV₁ = 47%).