MR Imaging of the Cerebral Aneurysmal Wall for Assessment of Rupture Risk

Neuroimaging Clin N Am. 2024 May;34(2):225-240. doi: 10.1016/j.nic.2024.01.003. Epub 2024 Feb 19.

Abstract

The evaluation of unruptured intracranial aneurysms requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. The comprehensive analysis of aneurysm wall enhancement through high-resolution MRI, in tandem with advanced processing techniques like finite element analysis, quantitative susceptibility mapping, and computational fluid dynamics, has begun to unveil insights into the intricate biology of aneurysms. This enhanced understanding of the etiology, progression, and eventual rupture of aneurysms holds the potential to be used as a tool to triage patients to intervention versus observation. Emerging tools such as radiomics and machine learning are poised to contribute significantly to this evolving landscape of diagnostic refinement.

Keywords: Aneurysm vessel wall; Aneurysm wall enhancement; High-resolution vessel wall imaging; Rupture risk.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aneurysm, Ruptured* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Aneurysm* / diagnostic imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Risk Factors