MR of the brain using fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) pulse sequences.

PURPOSE Results from conventional T2-weighted spin-echo sequences were compared with those obtained using fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) pulse sequences in order to assess their relative merits in detecting disease.

METHODS Forty adult patients with suspected disease of the brain were examined with spin-echo sequences (TE = 20 and TE = 80), and results were compared with FLAIR sequences of several types with inversion times of 1800-3000 msec and echo times of 130-240 msec. Scans were assessed by two radiologists for lesion number, conspicuity, and extent.

RESULTS A total of 48 lesions or groups of lesions were recognized with both sequences. In 22 instances, more lesions were seen with FLAIR sequences, and, in the remaining 26, equal numbers were seen. In 42 lesions, conspicuity was better with FLAIR sequences, equal in five and worse in one cystic lesion. Lesion extent was better assessed in 28 of the 48 cases with FLAIR sequences and equally well seen in the remainder.

CONCLUSION By virtue of their long echo time and relative freedom from cerebrospinal fluid artifact FLAIR sequences provide high sensitivity to a wide range of disease. The basic sequence is easy to implement but is relatively time consuming.