Many studies have investigated the use of magnetic resonance relaxation times for tissue characterization. A number have been performed in vivo with clinical whole-body imagers. Unfortunately, the results have yet to establish the role of quantitative tissue relaxation time measurements in clinical diagnosis. One of the major problems is that the techniques used in many of these studies are error prone, making the results inconclusive. In the present study, the problems associated with clinical T2 measurements were systematically evaluated in an attempt to obtain reliable in vivo quantitation. The authors demonstrate that spoiler gradients are the most effective technique for artifact suppression but that they render ineffective radio-frequency phase schemes such as the Meiboom-Gill modification to the Carr-Purcell sequence to compensate experimental imperfections. The present study results in a more reliable multi-echo sequence for T2 measurement. Preliminary clinical results in brain and cervix demonstrate the performance of the new technique.

This article reviews the radiologic findings and diagnostic pitfalls of cerebral venous thrombosis. After completing this article, the readers should have an improved ability to diagnose cerebral venous thrombosis accurately, using the optimal imaging tools to achieve this goal.

CVT is a relatively uncommon phenomenon and frequently overlooked at initial presentation. Familiarity with imaging features and diagnostic work-up of CVT will help in providing timely diagnosis and therapy which can significantly improve outcome and diminish the risk of acute and long-term complications, optimizing patient care.