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Double average parallel steady-state free precession imaging: optimized eddy current and transient oscillation
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Medical Physics, University Hospital Freiburg, Germany. michael.markl@uniklinik-freiburg.de
Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
|September 13, 2005
Summary
This study introduces a new parallel imaging method for balanced steady-state free precession (SSFP) MRI. It significantly reduces artifacts from eddy currents and transient phases, maintaining image quality and scan time.
Area of Science:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Balanced steady-state free precession (SSFP) imaging is prone to off-resonance artifacts, especially after magnetization preparation or steady-state interruption.
- Nonlinear k-space trajectories are often needed for specific timing or artifact reduction but disrupt the SSFP steady state due to eddy currents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel acquisition strategy for balanced SSFP imaging using parallel imaging.
- To optimize eddy current compensation and reduce transient phase artifacts.
Main Methods:
- A "double average" parallel imaging approach was developed for optimized eddy current compensation.
- The technique was applied to k-space segmented CINE SSFP tagging and nongated SSFP imaging.
- Scan time reduction was achieved using parallel imaging.
Main Results:
- Substantial reduction in steady-state storage and eddy current artifacts was observed in phantom and human studies.
- Spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio were maintained.
- Total scan time remained comparable to standard SSFP acquisitions.
Conclusions:
- The proposed double average parallel SSFP imaging effectively reduces artifacts while preserving image quality.
- This technique is easily adaptable to other SSFP acquisition schemes requiring nonlinear reordering or steady-state interruption.