DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES USING DIRECT INJECTION OF GASEOUS HYPERPOLARIZED 129XE AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND PRODUCTS

摘要

A method of screening for pulmonary embolism uses gaseous phase polarized Xe - 129 which is injected directly into the vasculature of a subject. The gaseou s Xe-129 can be delivered in a controlled manner such that the gas substantial ly dissolves into the vasculature proximate to the injection site. The injectab le formulation of polarized Xe-129 gas is presented in small quantities of (preferably isotopically enriched) hyperpolarized Xe-129 and can provide hig h- quality vasculature MRI images or NMR spectroscopic signals with clinically useful signal resolution or intensity. The direct injection of small quantities of gas at particular sites along the vasculature targets specific target regions to provide increased signal intensity NMR images. The disclosure also includes related methods directed to other diagnostic vasculature regions physiological and conditions. Associated delivery and dispensing systems and methods, containers, and quantitative formulations of the polarized gas are also described.