SSFP
Also written as: SSFP — Steady-State Free Precession
Steady-state free precession MRI sequence providing high contrast between blood and myocardium, commonly used for cardiac cine imaging.
Full Definition
Steady-state free precession (SSFP) is a balanced MRI pulse sequence that maintains a steady state of transverse and longitudinal magnetization. In cardiac imaging, SSFP sequences provide excellent contrast between flowing blood (which appears bright) and myocardium (which appears darker), making them ideal for assessing cardiac function and wall motion. The sequence is characterized by short repetition and echo times, allowing for rapid image acquisition with good temporal resolution. SSFP forms the backbone of most cardiac cine imaging protocols due to its superior blood-myocardium contrast.
Usage
Usage note: Often written as bSSFP when referring to balanced steady-state free precession specifically.
In Context
- "SSFP cine images demonstrated excellent endocardial border definition throughout the cardiac cycle." — Cardiac MRI technical report
- "The SSFP sequence was optimized for cardiac imaging with minimal banding artifacts." — Imaging protocol description