| Description |
Medical imaging has evolved in leaps and bounds during the last century. Several medical imaging modalities such as X-rays, single photon emission computer tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been developed. However, MRI has a distinct advantage over most of these imaging techniques. MRI does not use ionizing radiation, and hence, is considered a safer option for noninvasive imaging. However, every imaging modality comes with its set of limitations and challenges. Although quantitative myocardial perfusion MRI has been studied by researchers over a few decades, it has still not developed into a clinical tool. There is no consensus on the choice of imaging protocol to be used. The scientific community is still divided on the choice of pharmacokinetic model to be used for quantification of myocardial perfusion. In this dissertation, novel techniques were developed and implemented to address a few of the challenges faced by fully quantitative myocardial perfusion MRI. We strive to make it simpler and more accurate. It is with the development of such easy-to-use techniques that cardiac perfusion MRI will find increasing clinical use. These developments are a step in the transition of quantitative myocardial perfusion MRI from an "evolving tool" to an "evolved and matured tool." |
