Visualization Of Arteries Research Articles

High-Throughput Echocardiography-Guided Induction of Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion in Mice.

Mouse models of myocardial ischemia with subsequent heart failure are common approaches to examine heart failure pathology and possible treatment strategies. We sought to establish a high-throughput approach for echocardiography-guided induction of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (IR) in mice. After visualization of the left coronary artery with high-resolution ultrasound imaging and echocardiographic definition of the level of coronary occlusion, the left anterior descending artery was temporarily occluded with 2 micromanipulator-controlled needles. Functional and molecular changes were assessed and compared with commonly performed surgical techniques. Echocardiography-guided induction of myocardial IR enabled standardized induction of myocardial IR injury with subsequent left ventricular remodeling. Incorporation of various quality control measures throughout the procedure ensured a high success rate and the absence of relevant postinterventional mortality in experienced hands. Compared with surgical approaches, echocardiography-guided induction of myocardial IR showed a quicker recovery time and induced a less pronounced inflammatory response characterized by decreased local and systemic neutrophil counts. Notably, infarct size and subsequent post-myocardial infarction cardiac dysfunction were comparable between methods. The novel procedure was successfully implemented at different academic institutions with imaging expertise and demonstrated high interinstitutional reproducibility. Echocardiography-guided induction of myocardial IR enables high-throughput induction of myocardial IR injury with precise echocardiographic definition of the occlusion level and immediate evaluation of cardiac function during ischemia. The method provides a more clinically relevant assessment of IR sequelae and offers notable animal welfare advantages by eliminating the need for ventilation and thoracotomy, thereby mitigating potential surgery-related confounders.

Topographic and anatomical variability of the facial artery: Structure and physiology.

Topographic and anatomical variability of the facial artery: Structure and physiology.

Transformer and Attention-Based Architectures for Segmentation of Coronary Arterial Walls in Intravascular Ultrasound: A Narrative Review.

Background: The leading global cause of death is coronary artery disease (CAD), necessitating early and precise diagnosis. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a sophisticated imaging technique that provides detailed visualization of coronary arteries. However, the methods for segmenting walls in the IVUS scan into internal wall structures and quantifying plaque are still evolving. This study explores the use of transformers and attention-based models to improve diagnostic accuracy for wall segmentation in IVUS scans. Thus, the objective is to explore the application of transformer models for wall segmentation in IVUS scans to assess their inherent biases in artificial intelligence systems for improving diagnostic accuracy. Methods: By employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, we pinpointed and examined the top strategies for coronary wall segmentation using transformer-based techniques, assessing their traits, scientific soundness, and clinical relevancy. Coronary artery wall thickness is determined by using the boundaries (inner: lumen-intima and outer: media-adventitia) through cross-sectional IVUS scans. Additionally, it is the first to investigate biases in deep learning (DL) systems that are associated with IVUS scan wall segmentation. Finally, the study incorporates explainable AI (XAI) concepts into the DL structure for IVUS scan wall segmentation. Findings: Because of its capacity to automatically extract features at numerous scales in encoders, rebuild segmented pictures via decoders, and fuse variations through skip connections, the UNet and transformer-based model stands out as an efficient technique for segmenting coronary walls in IVUS scans. Conclusions: The investigation underscores a deficiency in incentives for embracing XAI and pruned AI (PAI) models, with no UNet systems attaining a bias-free configuration. Shifting from theoretical study to practical usage is crucial to bolstering clinical evaluation and deployment.

Improving Cerebrovascular Imaging with Deep Learning: Semantic Segmentation for Time-of-Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography Maximum Intensity Projection Image Enhancement

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is widely used for cerebrovascular assessment, with Time-of-Flight (TOF) MRA being a common non-contrast imaging technique. However, maximum intensity projection (MIP) images generated from TOF-MRA often include non-essential vascular structures such as external carotid branches, requiring manual editing for accurate visualization of intracranial arteries. This study proposes a deep learning-based semantic segmentation approach to automate the removal of these structures, enhancing MIP image clarity while reducing manual workload. Using DeepLab v3+, a convolutional neural network model optimized for segmentation accuracy, the method achieved an average Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) of 0.9615 and an Intersection over Union (IoU) of 0.9261 across five-fold cross-validation. The developed system processed MRA datasets at an average speed of 16.61 frames per second, demonstrating real-time feasibility. A dedicated software tool was implemented to apply the segmentation model directly to DICOM images, enabling fully automated MIP image generation. While the model effectively removed most external carotid structures, further refinement is needed to improve venous structure suppression. These results indicate that deep learning can provide an efficient and reliable approach for automated cerebrovascular image processing, with potential applications in clinical workflows and neurovascular disease diagnosis.

Survey of Advanced Image Fusion Techniques for Enhanced Visualization in Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Treatment

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) remain a major global health concern, necessitating accurate and comprehensive diagnostic techniques. Traditional medical imaging modalities, such as CT angiography, PET, MRI, and ultrasound, provide crucial but limited information when used independently. Image fusion techniques integrate complementary modalities, enhance visualization, and improve diagnostic accuracy. This paper presents a theoretical study of advanced image fusion methods applied to cardiovascular imaging. We explore wavelet-based, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and deep learning-driven fusion models, emphasizing their theoretical underpinnings, mathematical formulation, and potential clinical applications. The proposed framework enables improved coronary artery visualization, cardiac function assessment, and real-time hemodynamic analysis, offering a non-invasive and highly effective approach to cardiovascular diagnostics.

Russian consensus: balloon pulmonary angioplasty in treatment of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension

For a long time, the only method of revascularization in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) was pulmonary thromboendarterectomy from the branches of pulmonary artery. Transluminal balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA), as an alternative treatment option for inoperable and residual CTEPH, appeared recently, but has already firmly taken its place in the treatment algorithm of CTEPH, and has significantly improved the prognosis in such patients. Active use of BPA in everyday practice served as the reason for the creation of this consensus in order to summarize and systematize modern data on patient selection, technique and goals of endovascular treatment, prevention and treatment of complications. The document additionally covers the issues of visualization of the pulmonary arteries, complex variants of damage and describes an algorithm for the prevention and treatment of pulmonary injury after BPA. The recommendations provided in the consensus are based on the results of national and foreign studies, the experience of experts and are intended for specialists who are part of a multidisciplinary team for the management of patients with CTEPH (cardiologists, endovascular and cardiovascular surgeons), as well as pulmonologists, radiation diagnosticians and physicians.

Efficacy and Safety of High-Frequency Optical Coherence Tomography (HF-OCT) for Coronary Imaging: A Multicenter Study.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has emerged as an essential tool in coronary atherosclerosis research and has shown clinical value in optimizing percutaneous coronary intervention. Its capability to identify coronary plaque pathology and accurately detect intervention results, often overlooked by angiography, serves as a guide in managing patients with acute coronary syndromes, myocardial infarction due to nonobstructing coronary artery disease, calcified arteries, and in-stent restenosis, thus contributing to improved clinical outcomes. However, the current technology of intracoronary imaging catheters has a size approaching 3F, limiting its adoption preintervention. Furthermore, the image field of view of current OCT technologies cannot consistently offer complete visualization of coronary arteries ≥5 mm. In this multicenter, single-arm study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel imaging catheter and system called high-frequency optical coherence tomography (HF-OCT). This system features a reduced-size, rapid-exchange imaging catheter with a diameter of 1.8F. HF-OCT captures 100 mm long segments of coronary arteries in just 1 second. In addition, HF-OCT provides an expanded field of view greater than 14 mm in diameter, enabling complete imaging of large coronary arteries. After conducting 143 imaging acquisitions in 81 unique coronary arteries across 75 patients at 3 institutions, we obtained an average clear image length of 68.8 ± 18.8 mm. Coronary arteries of varying sizes, including cases with severe stenosis, were evaluated. Comparing preintervention HF-OCT acquisitions-taken prior to any arterial manipulation-to postintervention acquisitions, no significant difference in image quality was observed (t test, P = .901). The results of this study illustrate that a lower HF-OCT catheter profile, larger field of view, and faster pullback capabilities provide reliable imaging of coronary arteries in an all-comers, multicenter population.

Magnetic resonance angiography for cerebral arterial and venous visualization in dogs: a comparative study of time-of-flight, phase-contrast, and time-resolved imaging of contrast kinetics sequences.

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of three magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) sequences-Time-of-Flight (TOF), Phase-Contrast (PC), and Time-Resolved Imaging of Contrast Kinetics (TRICKS)-in visualizing cerebral arteries and veins in dogs. The goal is to determine the most suitable MRA sequence for improving diagnostic accuracy in canine cerebral imaging. Five healthy adult beagles underwent imaging using a 1.5-T MRI system. Quantitative measures, including signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), were calculated, and qualitative evaluations of vessel delineation and visualization symmetry were performed by blinded observers. The three sequences were statistically compared using Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. All dogs completed the imaging protocols without any complications. TOF MRA showed the best results for visualizing cerebral arteries, with the highest SNR and CNR in major arteries like the basilar, rostral, caudal cerebral, and caudal communicating arteries. TRICKS MRA performed better than TOF and PC for venous imaging, achieving higher SNR or CNR in most veins, including the transverse, temporal, straight sinus and dorsal cerebral vein, and had the shortest acquisition time. In qualitative evaluations, TOF MRA demonstrated acceptable or higher vascular visibility in most of brain arteries. All venous structures were significantly better visualized with TRICKS MRA compared to TOF MRA. Interobserver agreement was high, showing consistency in the results. These findings suggest that TOF is best for artery imaging, while TRICKS is ideal for venous imaging and faster procedures. TOF is recommended for clear and detailed imaging of cerebral arteries, while TRICKS is more suitable for imaging veins and situations where faster scans are needed. These results provide a basis for improving MRA techniques in veterinary medicine, helping to make diagnoses more accurate and procedures more efficient in both clinical practice and research.

Acute Moderate Hemodynamic Stroke Secondary to Large Vessel Stenosis: A Case Series Exploring Imaging Characteristics and Endovascular Treatment Outcomes.

Acute Moderate Hemodynamic Stroke Secondary to Large Vessel Stenosis: A Case Series Exploring Imaging Characteristics and Endovascular Treatment Outcomes.

Variations in intracranial arterial anatomy of the circle of Willis and their association with arteriosclerosis in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

An estimated 20-31% of all people are born with a textbook anatomical configuration of the intracranial arteries comprising the Circle of Willis. Individuals with specific anatomical variants may be at elevated risk of intracranial arteriosclerosis, and possibly its sequelae of stroke and dementia, as the distribution of blood flow and pressure is known to be different in variants with missing arteries or arterial segments. Therefore, we studied the association of anatomical variation of intracranial arteries with arteriosclerosis. Between December 2005 and October 2010, 1126 patients (mean age: 62.3 (SD: ±14.0) years, 48.0% female) were recruited, 59.9% of whom had ischemic stroke and 40.1% a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Within the routine diagnostic work-up for stroke, patients underwent cranial computed tomography (CT) angiography. These images enabled a detailed visualization of intracranial arteries, which allowed for the assessment of the anatomical configuration of the cerebral arteries, the anterior and posterior communicating arteries, the internal carotids, and the vertebrobasilar arteries. In addition, these images facilitated the identification of intracranial arterial calcifications, the defining feature of intracranial arteriosclerosis. Binomial logistic regression models adjusting for age, sex, and ethnicity were constructed to assess associations between intracranial artery variations and presence of intracranial arterial calcifications. An incomplete Circle of Willis, defined by aplasia of any arterial segment, was present in 875 (77.7%) patients. The most common variation found was aplasia of the right posterior communicating artery, in 52.0% of patients. Men more often presented with an incomplete anatomy as compared to women (adjusted odds ratio: 1.36 (95% CI = 1.02-1.81)). Intracranial artery calcification was present in 59.2% of patients. Incompleteness of the intracranial arteries was not associated with the presence of any intracranial artery calcification (0.95 (0.68-1.34)). However, specific variants were associated with specific locations of intracranial artery calcification: The prevalence of vertebrobasilar artery calcification was lower among those with fetal-type posterior cerebral artery compared to individuals with a normal posterior cerebral artery (0.61 (0.38-0.99)). The prevalence of vertebrobasilar artery calcification was higher among those with a-/hypoplasia of both posterior communicating arteries as compared to those with normal posterior communicating arteries (1.63 (1.00-2.66)). Furthermore, patients with a-/hypoplastic left A1-segments had a higher prevalence of right internal carotid artery calcification as compared to people with a normal left A1-segment (2.30 (1.00-5.26)). The prevalence of arteriosclerosis in the intracranial arteries on CT imaging varies among patients with certain anatomical variants of the intracranial arterial system. Specifically, arteriosclerosis in the right internal carotid artery and the vertebrobasilar arteries was more frequently observed in patients who had an a-/hypoplastic left anterior cerebral artery or a-/hypoplasia of both posterior communicating arteries, respectively. In addition, arteriosclerosis was less frequently observed among vertebrobasilar arteries of patients with a fetal-type posterior cerebral artery. Future longitudinal research is warranted regarding the anatomical configuration of intracranial arteries and the development of intracranial arteriosclerosis, as this line of research may reveal a novel group of people at elevated risk of cerebrovascular disease.

Prosedur Pemeriksaan MRI Cruris dengan Kontras pada Kasus Tumor

Background: This study examines the MRI Cruris contrast examination procedure for tumor cases at Dr. Moewardi Hospital. The hospital's MRI protocol includes sequences such as 3-plane localizer, Sag T1, Sag T2, Ax T1, Ax T2 STIR, Coronal T1, Coronal PD FS, Coronal T2* MERGE, 3D Coronal TRICKS, and post-contrast sequences Sag T1+C, Coronal T1+C, and Ax T1+C. The study aims to analyze the MRI Cruris contrast procedure, the rationale for using 5 ml contrast, and the importance of the Coronal 3D TRICKS sequence.Methods: A qualitative research method with a case study approach was used, involving observation, interviews, and documentation. The data was analyzed and presented in quotations to conclude.Result and Discussion: The MRI procedure begins with patient preparation, including laboratory tests for urea and creatinine levels, fasting for 4–6 hours, and filling out informed consent. Patients are positioned supine with feet first, and an air coil is placed on the leg. The use of 5 ml contrast enhances image quality, improves tumor detection, evaluates blood vessels, shows lesions, and determines tumor location and spread. The Coronal 3D TRICKS sequence provides clear MRA angiography, enabling better visualization of feeding arteries and rapid imaging of major blood vessels within 10 seconds.Conclusion: In conclusion, the MRI Cruris contrast protocol at Dr. Moewardi Hospital ensures high-quality imaging for tumor detection and diagnosis. The 5 ml contrast dose effectively enhances MRI images, and the Coronal 3D TRICKS sequence plays a crucial role in evaluating vascular structures.

Synthesis of Highly Stable Near-Infrared FAPbI3 Perovskite doped with 5-AVA and its Applications in NIR Light-Emitting Diodes for Bioimaging

The continuously increasing external quantum efficiencies of Perovskite light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have received significant interest in the scientific community. The need for monitoring and medical diagnostics has experienced a steady growth in recent years, primarily caused by older people and an increasing number of heart attacks, tumors, and cancer disorders among patients. The application of Perovskite near-infrared light-emitting diode (PeNIRLEDs) has exhibited considerable efficacy in bioimaging, particularly in the visualization and examination of blood arteries, blood clots, and tumors. PeNIRLEDs exhibit exciting potential in the field of blood vessel imaging because of their advantageous attributes, including improved depth penetration and less scattering in comparison to visible light. In this study we synthesized of FAPbI3 Perovskite doped with different concentrations of 5-Aminovaleric acid (5-AVA) 1-6 mg. The incorporation of 5-AVA as a dopant during the FAPbI3 Perovskite formation, it influences the FAPbI3 Perovskite’s structural and optical properties. While improve the FAPbI3 Perovskite’s stability, photoluminescence efficiency, and charge transport characteristics. We found resulting PL emission peak wavelength of 850 nm and bandwidth of 44 nm along with a calculated quantum yield of 75%.The incorporation of 5-AVA-modified FAPbI3 Perovskite into LEDs will show promising results, enhancing device efficiency, color purity, and stability. Making it suitable for various medical applications, including subcutaneous deep vein imaging, blood flow visualization, and tumor illumination.

Endoscopic paramaxillary ligation of the internal maxillary artery.

Endoscopic paramaxillary ligation of the internal maxillary artery.

The Empty Sylvian Fissure Sign: A Novel Non-contrast CT Finding in Moyamoya Disease.

Background and objective In Moyamoya disease, occlusion occurs at the terminus of the bilateral internal carotid artery, resulting in poor visualization of the distal middle cerebral artery (MCA) on imaging. This study aimed to investigate whether the absence of the MCA on non-contrast CT images constitutes a characteristic feature of Moyamoya disease. Methods Patients who were documented as having "Moyamoya disease" or "suspected Moyamoya disease" for insurance purposes in medical records were selected. Retrospective analysis of their datasets was conducted. Non-contrast head CT images were reviewed to ascertain the presence or absence of the MCA at four specified locations (right proximal, left proximal, right distal, and left distal) within the Sylvian fissure. Results Of the 151 patients identified, 23 cases of Moyamoya disease and 35 cases without Moyamoya disease were investigated. The Moyamoya disease cohort exhibited a significantly higher number of absent MCA observations within the four locations (2.65 vs. 0.83, p<0.001). With a threshold of ≥3 locations devoid of the MCA, the sensitivity and specificity of this finding for Moyamoya disease detection were 61% and 94%, respectively. Conclusions This study represents the first exploration of non-contrast head CT findings indicative of Moyamoya disease. Although cerebral angiography or MRI is indispensable for definitive diagnosis, a subset of patients may notundergo these detailed examinations. Focusing on the "empty Sylvian fissure sign" on non-contrast head CT images, frequently encountered in acute medical settings, may help detect patients with Moyamoya disease and support further evaluation.

A combined diagnostic model including middle rectal artery visualization for predicting lateral lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer.

This study attempted to establish a combined diagnostic model encompassing visualization of the middle rectal artery (MRA) and other imaging features to improve the diagnostic efficiency of lateral lymph node (LLN) metastasis, which is crucial for clinical decision-making in rectal cancer. One hundred eleven patients receiving bilateral or unilateral lymph node dissection were enrolled, and 140 cases of LLN status on a certain unilateral pelvic sidewall were selected. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) was used to determine whether MRA was visible. Multivariable regression was used to establish a diagnostic model combining MRA visualization with other imaging features to predict LLN metastasis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the ROC curve (AUC) were used to test the diagnostic efficacy for LLN metastasis. Ten-fold cross-validation was completed to internally validate the diagnostic model. Of the 140 LLNs harvested from 111 patients, 76 were positive and 64 were negative for metastases, respectively. The diagnostic model combining the MRA visualization and lymph node short diameter showed a greater efficiency than a single scale (AUC = 0.945, 95% confidence interval = 0.893-0.976, P < 0.001). The mean cross-validated AUC was 0.869 (95% confidence interval = 0.835-0.903). Our results establish a combined diagnostic model with the help of MRA visualization to yield a high diagnostic efficiency of LLN metastasis in rectal cancer.

Doppler-controlled microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy: a single centre experience

Introduction. Injury to the testicular artery during microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy (MSV) results in testicular atrophy in 20 – 40% of cases. The use of techniques that improve visualization of the testicular artery could increase the efficacy and safety of MSV. Objective. To evaluate the effect of intraoperative Doppler control (IDC) on the outcomes of microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy. Materials &amp; methods. Retrospective cohort study. The study included 101 patients with clinical left-sided varicocele who underwent surgical treatment at the «Mother and Child Yaroslavl» clinic between January 2022 and November 2023. Fifty-two patients underwent standard microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy (MSV group), while 49 patients had MSV with intraoperative Doppler control (MSV + IDC group). The intraoperative Doppler control was performed using the Minimax-Doppler-K 20 MHz («SP Minimax», St. Petersburg, Russia). Intraoperatively, the number of preserved arterial and ligated venous stems was counted. Three months after the surgery, the presence of postoperative complications and changes in pain syndrome were assessed. Results. The average surgery time was 79.5 ± 11.3 minutes in the MSV group and 75.4 ± 12.1 minutes in the MSV + IDC group (p = 0.083). Multiple branches of the testicular artery were observed in 77.6 % of patients in the MSV + IDC group compared to 36.5 % in the MSV group (p &lt; 0.001). The mean number of ligated veins was 16.7 ± 2.9 in the MSV + IDC group versus 15.0 ± 3.8 in the MSV group (p = 0.014). No differences were found in the number of preserved lymphatic vessels between the groups. Three months after surgery, no complications such as varicocele recurrence, hydrocele, or testicular atrophy were reported. Pain relief three months post-surgery was noted in 66.7% and 91.7 % of patients with preoperative pain syndrome in the MSV and MSV + IDC groups, respectively (p = 0.047). Conclusion. The utilisation of intraoperative Doppler control during microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy permits the preservation of a greater number of branches of the internal testicular artery, the ligation of a larger number of veins, and the attainment of superior outcomes with respect of post-operative pain relief.

Comparison of 3D BFFE and 3D TRANCE on pulmonary artery imaging with two T-SLIP placement strategies.

Comparison of 3D BFFE and 3D TRANCE on pulmonary artery imaging with two T-SLIP placement strategies.

Commentary: The Untaught Midline Retroperitoneal Approach to Repair Complex Abdominal Aortic Diseases

With increasing endovascular technology and skills, treatment of the aneurysmal and atherosclerotic occlusive aortic diseases is shifting towards a minimally invasive approach. Several prospective, randomized trials have shown decreased morbidity and mortality with the endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), compared to open surgery, for the treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms [1-4]. For aortic atherosclerotic occlusive disease, the preferred method of treatment is still controversial, with open surgical repair being considered the optimal approach in standard risk patients [5]. Endovascular treatment (kissing stents, covered endovascular reconstruction of the aortic bifurcation (CERAB), chimney-CERAB, and aorto-uni-iliac stent grafts) has been more commonly utilized in high-risk patients, but the mid and long-term patencies remain unknown [6-9]. As a result of the incessant transformation of the treatment of the aortic diseases, the vascular surgeons are becoming less comfortable performing open surgery, facing fewer but more complex open aortic repairs that require a supra renal or supra mesenteric clamp, such as for failed EVAR (“resilient”, high-pressure, endoleaks or graft infection) and for diseases involving the para visceral aorta. There are two techniques, well-illustrated in surgical books and atlas, which are taught during the surgical training to expose the abdominal aorta: The Midline Transperitoneal Approach (MTA) and the Lateral Retroperitoneal Approach (LRA). An “eternal fight” on the best modality exists between the two, with the MTA being the most familiar to the surgeons. Several retrospective studies highlighted the pros and cons of each approach, sometimes with opposite conclusions [10-12]. Historically, LRA has been utilized in patients with horseshoe kidney, inflammatory aneurysm, or history of multiple intraperitoneal procedures (hostile abdomen). Besides, LRA has been preferred for the exposure of the para visceral aorta. However, the LRA requires division of the lateral abdominal wall muscles with frequent muscular and/or flank bulging from muscle denervation and significant postoperative pain [13]. Furthermore, the LRA does not allow the exposure of the right iliac bifurcation and provides limited visualization of the right renal artery.

Ultrasound visualization and blood flow velocity measurements of the adrenal arteries in the fetus.

Detection and surveillance of fetal growth restriction (FGR) is well established, but there is still room for improvement. Animal studies indicate that compromised fetuses increase adrenal blood flow. Modern ultrasound equipment allows us to measure vascular impedance in the fetal adrenal arteries despite their modest size. However, extensive anatomical variance is a challenge to standardizing measurements. We set out to improve this. We included 75 low-risk pregnant women in a prospective cross-sectional study aiming to develop a reliable technique to visualize and measure flow velocity in human fetal adrenal arteries. We used commercially available ultrasound equipment: a GE Voluson 10 2019 with a C2-9 probe (GE Healthcare, Zipf, Austria), and a Philips Epiq Elite with a V9-2 probe (Philips Medical Systems International B.V., Best, The Netherlands), exploiting the modern sensitive power Doppler modes in both scanners to visualize small vessels. Among 72 fetuses, the inferior adrenal artery was the most consistently visualized and measured artery to the gland. Doppler velocimetry was achieved in 66 (92%) participants. We found the anatomical variation described previously but were able to develop visualization strategies to identify the common arteries and use a consistent Doppler technique for the second half of pregnancy. It is possible to visualize and measure flow velocity in the adrenal arteries of human fetuses. The success rate was highest for the inferior adrenal artery making this vessel a candidate for clinical studies.

Visibility of Intracranial Perforating Arteries Using Ultra-High-Resolution Photon-Counting Detector Computed Tomography (CT) Angiography.

Background/Objectives: Photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) offers energy-resolved CT data with enhanced resolution, reduced electronic noise, and improved tissue contrast. This study aimed to evaluate the visibility of intracranial perforating arteries on ultra-high-resolution (UHR) CT angiography (CTA) on PCD-CT. Methods: A retrospective analysis of intracranial UHR PCD-CTA was performed for 30 patients. The image quality from four UHR PCD-CTA reconstruction methods [kernel Hv40 and Hv72, with and without quantum iterative reconstruction (QIR)] was assessed for the lenticulostriate arteries (LSAs) and pontine arteries (PAs). A subjective evaluation included peripheral visibility, vessel sharpness, and image noise, while objective analysis focused on the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Results: Peripheral LSAs were well visualized across all reconstruction methods, with no significant differences between them. Vessel sharpness and image noise varied significantly (p < 0.0001); sharper LSAs and more noise were seen with kernel Hv72 compared to kernel Hv40 (p < 0.05). A similar pattern was observed for PAs, though peripheral visibility was lower than that for LSAs. The SNR and CNR were the highest in the presence of kernel Hv72 with QIR, and lowest with kernel Hv72 without QIR, compared to kernel Hv40 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: UHR PCD-CTA provided a good visualization of the intracranial perforating arteries, particularly LSAs. The vessel sharpness and image noise varied by reconstruction method, in which kernel Hv72 with QIR offered the optimal visualization.