What can we see with IVIM MRI?

Intravoxel Incoherent Motion (IVIM) refers to translational movements which within a given voxel and during the measurement time present a distribution of speeds in orientation and/or amplitude. The IVIM concept has been used to estimate perfusion in tissues as blood flow in randomly oriented capillaries mimics a pseudo-diffusion process. IVIM-based perfusion MRI, which does not require contrast agents, has gained momentum recently, especially in the field oncology. In this introductory review the basic concepts, models, technical requirements and limitations inherent to IVIM-based perfusion MRI are outlined, as well as new, non-perfusion applications of IVIM MRI, such as virtual MR Elastography. •IVIM refers to translational movements which within a voxel present a distribution of speeds in orientation or amplitude.•The concept was introduced in 1986 with Diffusion MRI, as blood flow in capillaries (perfusion) mimics a diffusion process.•IVIM-based perfusion MRI, which does not require contrast agents, is gaining momentum, especially for oncologic applications.•IVIM does not only refer to blood microcirculation, as other sources of intravoxel incoherent motion are possible.