Simultaneous Assessment of Intracranial Artery and CSF Pulsation Using 3D Whole-brain Diffusion-prepared-bSSFP Cine MRI

Motivation: Intracranial arterial pulsations and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics are inherently associated. Their interaction may reflect the mechanisms in brain fluid circulation. However, there is no noninvasive imaging technique that can simultaneously assess them. Goal(s): To propose a technique enabling concurrent visualization and quantification of intracranial artery and CSF pulsation throughout cardiac cycle. Approach: We developed a novel 3D whole-brain diffusion-prepared-bSSFP cine MRI sequence that provides dynamic images with black-blood and diffusion contrasts. Results: Our technique characterized both intracranial artery and CSF pulsation. Preliminary analysis revealed that the arterial and CSF pulsation have a phase delay, which is consistent in different CSF regions. Impact: Our diffusion-prepared 3D black-blood cine MRI visualizes artery and CSF pulsation simultaneously, reduces scan time, and circumvents image registration. It allows for comprehensive evaluation of vascular function and CSF dynamics, potentially facilitating the early detection and monitoring of cerebrovascular diseases.