In vivo measurement of pulsewave velocity in small vessels using intravascular MR

A one-dimensional intravascular MR (IVMR) technique for the measurement of pulsewave velocity in a single cardiac cycle is presented. The technique was used to measure pulsewave velocity in vivo in the intact rabbit model, where its sensitivity to different hemodynamic states was demonstrated using a pharmacological intervention with phenylephrine and nitroprusside. IVMR measurements of pulsewave velocity were found to increase with mean arterial pressure, as expected. Further, IVMR-based pulsewave velocity estimates were in agreement with those measured by pressure catheters and direct distensibility measurement. Because of their rapidity and highly localized nature, these measurements of vessel elasticity may complement the high-resolution vascular imaging information gained in an IVMR examination. This could allow assessment of atherosclerotic plaques and facilitate immediate treatment decisions. Magn Reson Med 45:53-60, 2001.