Optimal velocity encoding in preoperative vascular assessment magnetic resonance angiography for transradial/transulnar neurointervention

Motivation: The optimal VENC setting for the 3D PC imaging of radial/ulnar arteries remains unclear. Goal(s): We aimed to investigate the optimal VENC setting of radial/ulnar arteries. Approach: All patients underwent MRA imaging using the 3D PC method with three different VENC settings (15, 30, and 45). The SNR of radial/ulnar arteries was calculated. The differences in mean SNR were assessed using Kruskal-Wallis analysis with post hoc pairwise comparisons. Five cerebrovascular treatment specialists assessed the clarity and visual quality of the radial/ulnar artery imaging. Results: The SNR and average degree of preference were high for a VENC setting of 15. Impact: A VENC setting of 15 is appropriate for MRA imaging of radial/ulnar arteries using the 3D PC method, allowing preoperative vascular evaluation in transradial/transulnar neurointervention. However, the VENC settings for younger patients should be determined after consultation with clinicians.