Evaluation of dural sinuses with MR angiography and Gd-DTPA

The authors investigate the clinical utility of MR angiography in conjunction with Gd-DTPA in evaluating the dural sinuses, with emphasis on the sagittal sinus. Patients were scanned with a 1.5-T system. Transaxial, sagittal, and coronal images were obtained with a circular polarized head coil, and fast low-angle shot (FLASH) or fast imaging with steady precession (FISP) sequences were used in conjunction with velocity compensation or velocity and acceleration compensation, after administration of Gd-DTPA. Section thickness was 1--1.25 mm. Studies performed without Gd-DTPA reveal a signal void in the middle aspect of the sagittal sinus. The group studied with Gd-DTPA did not demonstrate a significant loss of signal. Sequences (FISP and FLASH) with compensation for velocity in three axes were superior to those with compensation for velocity and acceleration. Although abnormalities of the venous sinuses make up a small percentage of intracranial vascular abnormalities, they can be difficult to diagnose with conventional modalities. The authors' work indicates that MR angiography is capable of evaluating the sinuses in a satisfactory manner when performed in conjunction with Gd-DTPA