Patent ID: 6589506
Filing Date: 2003-07-08
Classification: G01R

Abstract:
A method for using a contrast agent for the assessment of the pulmonary ventilation and lung perfusion through MRI, wherein the contrast agent comprises a compound selected from the group consisting of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIO), ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (USPIO), gadolinium complexes and manganese complexes, and the method comprises:(a) positioning a human subject in an MRI apparatus; (b) delivering a hyperpolarized noble gas to the subject by inhalation, followed by a breath-hold period, during which a bolus of said contrast agent is injected intravenously; and (c) acquiring, during said breath-hold period, at least one MR image of the lungs prior to said bolus intravenous injection and at least one MR image thereafter.