MRI of the lung (1/3): methods

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Proton magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a developing clinical method for lung visualization.
• Understanding the technical requirements is crucial for implementing lung MRI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the technical aspects of proton MRI for lung imaging.
• To present a toolkit of MRI pulse sequences, radiofrequency (RF) coils, and system requirements.
• To serve as a foundation for future papers on lung disease and function imaging.

Main Methods:

• Detailed review of MRI hardware, including radiofrequency (RF) coils and system specifications.
• Explanation of various MRI pulse sequences applicable to lung parenchyma, vasculature, and functional imaging.
• Illustration of pulse-sequence building blocks for constructing clinical lung MRI protocols using a 1.5 T scanner.

Main Results:

• Established the necessary hardware and pulse sequence requirements for proton lung MRI.
• Provided an overview of pulse sequences suitable for lung parenchyma, vascular, and functional imaging.
• Demonstrated the fundamental components for developing clinical lung MRI protocols.

Conclusions:

• Proton lung MRI requires specific technical considerations for hardware and pulse sequences.
• A foundational understanding of these elements is key to establishing robust clinical protocols.
• This work provides essential technical guidance for MR scientists, technicians, and radiologists.