Figure 6

Using dedicated post-processing, renal perfusion and filtration can be quantified based on high temporal resolution data sets. Figure 6A illustrates in this instance non-enhanced, arterial phase and late venous phase images, subsequently acquired with a high-temporal resolution TurboFLASH sequence. After post-processing, color coded maps as well as quantified values of renal perfusion (plasma flow, F_P) and filtration values (tubular flow, F_T) can be derived from the primary MR data set. This analysis is, for example, especially helpful in evaluating therapeutic success after interventional procedures as shown in Figure 6B. After stenting of a high-grade renal artery stenosis, the plasma flow value normalized as did cortical and medullary oxygenation, both of which can be measured using a BOLD-sequence. These techniques along with BOLD, as illustrated in this case, have extended the utility of MR beyond purely morphologic assessments, allowing detection of functional renal impairments.