Novel T * 2 ‐weighted contrast preparation scheme for segmented k ‐space myocardial imaging

A novel T   * 2 ‐weighted contrast‐preparation scheme is described for use with segmented k ‐space cardiac sequences. This approach frees the imaging phase from the requirement of a long TE and, hence, a relatively long TR. A [90° x ‐τ‐90° ρ ] preparation scheme is used to acquire four image data sets with the phase ρ of the second pulse set to x , y , – x , and – y . The ρ = x raw data is subtracted from the ρ = – x data to form the “ x ” image, with a similar subtraction to generate the “ y ” image. These images are added in quadrature to obtain the T   * 2 ‐weighted image. The method results in reduced artifact compared to a simple two‐image scheme with ρ = x , and y . T   * 2was measured in the myocardial septum in six normal volunteers by comparing τ = 7 and 28 ms images, and it was found to be 44 ± 5 ms at 0.95 T. Magn Reson Med 49:776–780, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.