Simultaneous multislice imaging with slice-multiplexed RF pulses

A method for simultaneous multislice imaging is presented that uses a multislice RF pulse that imparts a different linear phase profile to each slice. During readout, slices are unaliased by using extra slice-select gradient lobes, which rephase and dephase individual slices one at a time. Compared to other simultaneous slice methods, this method avoids distortion by slice-select gradients, and does not require extra views or additional hardware. However, because one echo per slice is required, the method requires a longer read period. This can cause non-ideal rephasing of the individual slices due to susceptibility gradients, which manifests itself as crosstalk between slices. There is also a concomitant increase in the minimum TR of the sequence. The method is demonstrated with phantom and in vivo images using gradient-echo and spin-echo versions.