Including Prior Knowledge in the Reconstruction of ASL Perfusion Images to Reduce Noise and Improve Spatial Resolution

Philip M. Robson¹, David C. Alsop¹

ASL perfusion images are often acquired at low spatial resolution to attain sufficient SNR in the perfusion signal. However, ASL studies often include acquisition of high resolution anatomical reference images. ASL perfusion imaging is, therefore, a good candidate to benefit from the combined functional and anatomical information available from MRI. We explore the use of constrained image reconstructions and inclusion of prior knowledge from anatomical reference images to enhance SNR in perfusion images and improve spatial resolution.