SWAN sequence
Also written as: SWAN — Susceptibility-Weighted Angiography
Susceptibility-weighted angiography sequence that enhances visualization of venous structures and hemorrhagic lesions.
Full Definition
Susceptibility-Weighted Angiography (SWAN) is a high-resolution MRI sequence that combines magnitude and phase information to create enhanced contrast for structures containing deoxyhemoglobin, methemoglobin, or other paramagnetic substances. This sequence is particularly useful for detecting microbleeds, cavernous malformations, venous structures, and calcifications. SWAN provides superior visualization of cerebral veins and can help identify subtle hemorrhagic lesions that may not be apparent on conventional sequences.
Usage
Usage note: GE Healthcare's implementation of susceptibility-weighted imaging.
In Context
- "SWAN sequence revealed multiple cortical microbleeds consistent with cerebral amyloid angiopathy." — dementia workup report
- "The venous anatomy was better delineated on SWAN compared to conventional T2-weighted images." — vascular malformation assessment