MR imaging of brain surface using steady‐state free precession

Abstract

We present an imaging technique that affords direct and noninvasive visualization of brain surface structure. This technique utilizes the signal before the rf pulse in steady-state free precession. This signal highly reflects the spin-spin relaxation time T2 as was studied in our laboratory (Matsui et al. J. Magn. Reson. 62, 12, 1985). Therefore the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), having a long T2, is depicted as high intensity. The CSF permeates cerebral sulci and fissures. The imaging time with this technique is less than 1 min.