Dynamic T mapping by multi-spin-echo spatiotemporal encoding.

TitleDynamic T mapping by multi-spin-echo spatiotemporal encoding.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsBao Q, Ma L, Liberman G, Solomon E, Martinho RP, Frydman L
JournalMagn Reson Med
Volume84
Issue2
Pagination895-907
Date Published2020 08
ISSN1522-2594
KeywordsAlgorithms, Animals, Brain, Echo-Planar Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Mice, Phantoms, Imaging
Abstract

PURPOSE: To develop a pulse sequence for acquiring robust, quantitative T relaxation maps in real time.

METHODS: The pulse scheme relies on fully refocused spatiotemporally encoded multi-spin-echo trains, which provide images that are significantly less distorted than spin-echo echo planar imaging-based counterparts. This enables single-shot T mapping in inhomogeneity-prone regions. Another advantage of these schemes stems from their ability to interleave multiple scans in a reference-free manner, providing an option to increase sensitivity and spatial resolution with minimal motional artifacts.

RESULTS: The method was implemented in preclinical and clinical scanners, where single-shot acquisitions delivered reliable T maps in ≤200 ms with ≈250 µm and ≈3 mm resolutions, respectively. Ca. 4 times higher spatial resolutions were achieved for the motion-compensated interleaved versions of these acquisitions, delivering T maps in ca. 10 s per slice. These maps were nearly indistinguishable from multi-scan relaxometric maps requiring orders-of-magnitude longer acquisitions; this was confirmed by mice head and real-time mice abdomen 7T scans performed following contrast-agent injections, as well as by 3T human brain and breast scans.

CONCLUSION: This study introduced and demonstrated a new approach for acquiring rapid and quantitative T data, which is particularly reliable when operating at high fields and/or targeting heterogeneous organs or regions.

DOI10.1002/mrm.28158
Alternate JournalMagn Reson Med
PubMed ID31957925
Related Institute: 
MRI Research Institute (MRIRI)

Weill Cornell Medicine
Department of Radiology
525 East 68th Street New York, NY 10065