Magnetic resonance imaging of ultrasound fields: gradient characteristics

Phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to image particle displacements arising from a 0.515-MHZ focused ultrasound (US) field. The technique used a phase-locked, self-resonant gradient matched to the US frequency in conjunction with a spin-echo sequence to generate phase images of US-induced displacement parallel to the US propagation direction. The gradient design was numerically optimized to provide maximum linearity and magnitude while minimizing gradient inductance. The windings were fabricated of Litz wire to minimize resistive losses and mounted in an oil-cooled imaging chamber. When driven by a resonance power supply, a peak magnetic field gradient of 0.40 T/m was attained with a peak current of 20 amp in a volume of 53 cm(3), achieving stable oscillation at the required US frequency. Clear detection of the nanometer scale particle motions of the US field was achieved and allowed quantitative, noninvasive visualization of the entire US field. While the required gradient slew rate for US detection is beyond that recommended for in vivo application, this imaging method opens new possibilities for in vitro or ex vivo research in the study of the interaction of US with tissue.