SNAPFLOW: A Novel Integrated MRI Sequence for Simultaneous Cerebral MRA and Blood Flow Assessment

Motivation: Current sequences for evaluating cerebrovascular structure and blood flow require separate scans, which are time-consuming and may introduce variability. Goal(s): We aim to propose the time-efficient SNAPFLOW sequence to acquire SNAP, ASL MRA and 3D phase-contrast velocity maps in a single scan. Approach: SNAPFLOW uses IR pre-pulses followed by two directional phase-contrast acquisitions within each IRTR. By repeating this three times, it acquires data of three PC REF, one RL, one AP and one FH and can produce both vasculature and flow images. Results: SNAPFLOW efficiently produces both velocity maps and MRA with high consistency compared to separate scans. Impact: The novel sequence SNAPFLOW enables simultaneous acquisition of MRA and blood flow data within a single scan, offering an efficient and comprehensive cerebrovascular assessment. In addition, this proposed sequence has potential in evaluating intraplaque hemorrhage.