Use of non-contrast enhanced silent MR angiography in cerebrovascular disease

Silent MRA is a next-generation angiographic technique that does not require contrast agents, is non-invasive, and is becoming increasingly utilized for cerebrovascular imaging. Compared with TOF MRA, which is the most commonly used non-contrast enhanced sequence in the field of cerebrovascular disease, silent MRA can more accurately depict the structure of intracranial blood vessels due to its advanced imaging principles. Several preliminary studies have demonstrated its excellent diagnostic performance for various cerebrovascular diseases. However, the efficacy of silent MRA in clinical practice needs further confirmation. In this article, we summarize the current evidence regarding the imaging principles, clinical applications, and imaging features of silent MRA in different cerebrovascular diseases.