Neuroimaging Clinics RSS feed: Current Issue. Neuroimaging Clinics of North America updates you on the latest trends in patient management; keeps you up to date on the newest advances; and provides a sound basis for choosing treatment options. Each issue focuses on a single topic in neuroimaging and is presented under the direction of an experienced guest editor. In addition, you can earn valuable CME credits - up to 60 per year - with your subscription. http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/?rss=yesElsevier Inc.en © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Neuroimaging Clinics1052-5149222May 2012 © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000639/abstract?rss=yesCME Accreditation Page and Author Disclosure10.1016/j.nic.2012.04.005Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2iiiiiihttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS105251491200024X/abstract?rss=yesForthcoming/Recent Issues10.1016/S1052-5149(12)00024-XNeuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2ivivhttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000251/abstract?rss=yesContributors10.1016/S1052-5149(12)00025-1Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2vviihttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000263/abstract?rss=yesContents10.1016/S1052-5149(12)00026-3Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2ixxiihttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000330/abstract?rss=yesProfessor Willinek has done his usual excellent job bringing together top experts for this High Field Imaging Issue of Neuroimaging Clinics. This, of course, is not unexpected given his involvement over the past 12 years with the High Field Imaging Symposium at the University of Bonn and his current position as President of the International Magnetic Resonance Angiography Working Group (aka “MR Angio Club”).High Field ImagingWilliam G. Bradley10.1016/j.nic.2012.04.001Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2xiiixiiihttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000184/abstract?rss=yesThe scope of this issue of Neuroimaging Clinics is neuroradiology applications of highfield magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. For more than a decade, highfield MR systems operating at 3 Tesla have been used for imaging worldwide.PrefaceWinfried A. Willinek10.1016/j.nic.2012.03.002Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2xvxvhttp://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000032/abstract?rss=yesDiffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) are essential tools for diagnosing, differentiating, and monitoring brain tumors. High-field MRI provides higher signal-to-noise ratio, shorter scan time, and better image quality. One-stop multiparametric study, including DTI and PWI, is possible with high-field MRI in brain tumors. DTI can be used for assessing spatial relationship between major white matter tract and tumor, differentiating gliomas from nonglial tumors, and postoperative evaluation. PWI provides reliable biomarkers for glioma grading, therapeutic responses, and differential diagnosis of various brain tumors. With higher field strength, better-quality DTI and PWI can raise the diagnostic accuracy in brain tumors.Diffusion Tensor and Perfusion Imaging of Brain Tumors in High-Field MR ImagingSeung-Koo Lee10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.001Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-14Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-14222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2123134http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000123/abstract?rss=yesMultiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). MS has been subject to high-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging research to a great extent during the past years, and much data has been collected that might be helpful in the investigation of other inflammatory CNS disorders. This article reviews the value of high-field MR imaging in examining inflammatory MS abnormalities. Furthermore, possibilities and challenges for the future of high-field MR imaging in MS are discussed.Inflammation High-Field Magnetic Resonance ImagingIris D. Kilsdonk, Wolter L. de Graaf, Frederik Barkhof, Mike P. Wattjes10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.010Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-26Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-26222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2135157http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS105251491200007X/abstract?rss=yesHigh-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is showing potential for imaging of neurodegenerative diseases. 7 T MR imaging is beginning to be used in a clinical research setting and the theoretical benefits of higher signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity to iron, improved MR angiography, and increased spectral resolution in spectroscopy are being confirmed. Despite the limited number of studies to date, initial results in patients with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer disease, and Huntington disease show promising additional features in contrast that may help the diagnosis of these disorders.High-Field Imaging of Neurodegenerative DiseasesM.J. Versluis, J. van der Grond, M.A. van Buchem, P. van Zijl, A.G. Webb10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.005Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-04-02Neuroimaging Clinics2012-04-02222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2159171http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS105251491200010X/abstract?rss=yesEpileptogenic lesions are often subtle, do not change during life, and are easily overlooked, if spatial resolution and signal to noise ratio are inappropriate. 2D or more recently 3D-FLAIR sequences are best suited to detect small cortical dysplasias which are often located at the bottom of a sulcus. 3D-T1-weighted gradient echo sequences are used for multiplanar, curved surface reformations, and voxel-based analyses. 3 T MR imaging is currently the state-of-the-art imaging modality for patients with suspected structural epilepsies in which an epileptogenic lesion has not yet been found.High-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging for EpilepsyHorst Urbach10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.008Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-04-05Neuroimaging Clinics2012-04-05222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2173189http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000044/abstract?rss=yesDiagnostic modalities for the diagnosis of acute stroke have increased in number and quality. Magnetic resonance imaging has increasingly become a central tool for the management of patients with stroke. New sequences, such as diffusion and perfusion, provide insight into the infarcted core and the hypoperfused brain. The use of higher magnetic fields allows us to gain in signal strength, which can be used to improve imaging speed and/or resolution. Recent additional sequences allow perfusion without contrast and susceptibility-weighted imaging can help identify early bleeding. These new techniques should provide more information about the on going ischemic process.Stroke: High-Field Magnetic Resonance ImagingKarl-Olof Lövblad, Sven Haller, Vitor Mendes Pereira10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.002Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-14Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-14222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2191205http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000081/abstract?rss=yesMagnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the brain obtained at 3 T imaging has made a significant clinical impact. MRA benefits from acquisition at higher magnetic field strength because of higher available signal-to-noise ratio and improved relative background suppression due to magnetic field strength–related T1 lengthening. Parallel imaging techniques are ideally suited for high-field MRA. Many of the developments that have made 3 T MRA of the brain successful can be regarded as enabling technologies that are essential for further development of 7 T MRA, which brings additional challenges.Vascular Disorders—Magnetic Resonance Angiography: Brain VesselsNorbert G. Campeau, John Huston10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.006Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-30Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-30222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2207233http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000093/abstract?rss=yesRecent advances in magnetic resonance (MR) hardware and software have improved the resolution and spatial coverage of head and neck first-pass contrast-enhanced (CE) MR angiography. Despite these improvements, high-quality submillimeter-resolution 1.5 T and 3 T carotid CE MR angiography is not consistently available in the general radiology practice. This article reviews the important imaging parameters and potential pitfalls that affect carotid CE MR angiography image quality, and the dose and timing of the gadolinium-based contrast agent, and summarizes vendor-specific protocols for high-quality submillimeter-resolution carotid CE MR angiography at 1.5 and 3 T.Current State-of-the-Art 1.5 T and 3 T Extracranial Carotid Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance AngiographyJ. Kevin DeMarco, Winfried A. Willinek, J. Paul Finn, John Huston10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.007Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2235257http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000056/abstract?rss=yesThe introduction of high-field magnetic imaging (≥3 T) has made noninvasive arterial spin labeling (ASL) a realistic clinical option for perfusion assessment in vascular disorders. Combined with the advances provided by territorial imaging of individual intracerebral arteries and the measurement of vascular reactivity, ASL is a powerful tool for evaluating vascular diseases of the brain. This article evaluates its use in chronic cerebrovascular disease, stroke, moyamoya disease, and arteriovenous malformation, but ASL may also find applications in related diseases such as vascular dementia.Vascular Disorders: Insights from Arterial Spin LabelingJeroen Hendrikse, Esben Thade Petersen, Xavier Golay10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.003Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-14Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-14222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2259269http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000135/abstract?rss=yesManifestations of atherosclerotic plaque in different arterial beds range from perfusion deficits to overt ischemia such as stroke and myocardial infarction. Atherosclerotic plaque composition is associated with its propensity to rupture and cause vascular events. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of atherosclerotic plaque using clinical 1.5 T scanners can detect plaque composition. Plaque MR imaging at higher field strengths offers both opportunities and challenges to improving the high spatial resolution and contrast required for this type of imaging. This article summarizes the technological requirements required for high-field plaque MR imaging and its application in detecting plaque components.High-Field Atherosclerotic Plaque Magnetic Resonance ImagingChun Yuan, Jinnan Wang, Niranjan Balu10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.011Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2271284http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000159/abstract?rss=yesHead and neck imaging has benefited from 1.5 T magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, providing faster sequences, better soft tissue evaluation, and 3-axis imaging, with less radiation and iodine-based contrast injection. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved human MR imaging at high-field strength up to 4 T in clinical practice. 3 T MR imaging has become widely available, with the hope of significant advance in the evaluation of the head and neck region. This article reviews the benefits, disadvantages, and challenges of high-field imaging of the head and neck region, focusing on the imaging of head and neck cancer.Head and Neck High-Field Imaging: Oncology ApplicationsWessam Bou-Assaly, Ashok Srinivasan, Suresh K. Mukherji10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.013Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-21Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-21222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2285296http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000111/abstract?rss=yesHigh-field 3 T magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provides greater signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared with 1.5 T systems. Various MR imaging clinical applications in children can benefit from improvements resulting from this increased SNR. High-resolution imaging of the brain, arterial spin labeling perfusion imaging, diffusion imaging, MR spectroscopy, and imaging of small anatomic parts are some areas in which these improvements can increase our clinical diagnostic capabilities. However, challenges inherent to 3 T imaging become more relevant in children. The use of 3 T imaging in children has allowed better diagnostic efficacy in neuroimaging, but certain technique modifications may be required for optimal imaging.Pediatric High-Field Magnetic Resonance ImagingHisham M. Dahmoush, Arastoo Vossough, Timothy P.L. Roberts10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.009Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-29Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-29222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2297313http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000172/abstract?rss=yesMagnetic resonance (MR) imaging at 3 T has proved superior to 1.5 T in the brain for detecting numerous pathologic entities including hemosiderin, tiny metastases, subtle demyelinating plaques, active demyelinating plaques, and some epileptogenic foci, as well as small aneurysms with MR angiography. 3 T is superior to most advanced imaging techniques including diffusion, diffusion tensor imaging, perfusion, spectroscopy and functional MR imaging. The increased signal/noise ratio at 3 T permits higher spatial resolution. Initially spine imaging at 3 T proved more difficult with less successful results. During the past 7 years, technological advances in magnet and surface coil design as well as improved radio frequency transmitters and pulse sequence design in combination with the large body of knowledge accrued by radiologists and physicists during a nine year experience with clinical imaging of the spine with the doubled B0, has resulted in 3 T MRI of the spine achieving a reputation similar to that for brain imaging.Imaging of the Spine at 3 TeslaMarc Shapiro10.1016/j.nic.2012.03.001Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2315341http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000068/abstract?rss=yesIn this review, current (clinical) applications and possible future directions of ultrahigh-field (≥7 T) magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the brain are discussed. Ultrahigh-field MR imaging can provide contrast-rich images of diverse pathologies and can be used for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring of brain disease. These images may provide increased sensitivity and specificity. Several limitations need to be overcome before worldwide clinical implementation can be commenced. Current literature regarding clinically based ultrahigh-field MR imaging is reviewed, and limitations and promises of this technique are discussed, as well as some practical considerations for the implementation in clinical practice.Ultrahigh-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging: The Clinical Potential for Anatomy, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment Planning in Brain DiseaseAnja G. van der Kolk, Jeroen Hendrikse, Peter R. Luijten10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.004Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2343362http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000160/abstract?rss=yesAn increase of the magnetic field strength to ultrahigh-field yields advantageous as well as disadvantageous changes in physical effects. The beneficial increase in signal/noise ratio can be leveraged into higher spatiotemporal resolution, and an exacerbation of artifacts can impede ultrahigh-field imaging. With the successful introduction of intracranial and musculoskeletal imaging at 7 T, recent advances in coil design have created opportunities for further applications of ultrahigh-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in other parts of the body. Initial studies in 7 T neck and spine MR imaging have revealed promising insights and new challenges, demanding further research and methodological optimization.Ultrahigh-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging: The Clinical Potential for Anatomy, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Neck and Spine DiseaseLale Umutlu, Michael Forsting, Mark E. Ladd10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.014Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-03-19Neuroimaging Clinics2012-03-19222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2363371http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000147/abstract?rss=yesThere are several magnetic resonance (MR) imaging techniques that benefit from high-field MR imaging. This article describes a range of novel techniques that are currently being used clinically or will be used in the future for clinical purposes as they gain popularity. These techniques include functional MR imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, cortical thickness assessment, arterial spin labeling perfusion, white matter hyperintensity lesion assessment, and advanced MR angiography.Current Status and Future Perspectives of Magnetic Resonance High-Field Imaging: A SummaryVivek Prabhakaran, Veena A. Nair, Benjamin P. Austin, Christian La, Thomas A. Gallagher, Yijing Wu, Donald G. McLaren, Guofan Xu, Patrick Turski, Howard Rowley10.1016/j.nic.2012.02.012Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2373397http://www.neuroimaging.theclinics.com/article/PIIS1052514912000275/abstract?rss=yesIndex10.1016/S1052-5149(12)00027-5Neuroimaging Clinics 22, 2 (2012)2012-05-01Neuroimaging Clinics2012-05-01222S1052-5149(11)X0007-2399402