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Flow effects in multislice, spin-echo magnetic resonance imaging. Model, experimental verification, and clinical
D M Williams1, C R Meyer, R J Schreiner
1Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Hospitals, Ann Arbor.
Investigative Radiology
|August 1, 1987
Summary
A new computer model simulates magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of blood flow, predicting signal loss artifacts. This model helps explain flow phenomena in vessels and calibrate future flow-sensitive MR sequences.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biophysics
- Computational Modeling
Background:
- Blood flow significantly impacts clinical magnetic resonance (MR) images.
- Understanding these flow effects is crucial for accurate image interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a computer model simulating conventional multislice spin-echo pulse sequences.
- To elucidate the complex effects of flowing blood on MR image intensity.
- To predict and explain flow-related artifacts in MR imaging.
Main Methods:
- Developed a computer model for multislice spin-echo pulse sequences.
- Calculated MR signal intensity versus z-axis velocity using TR, TE, and slice acquisition direction.
- Verified model predictions using a bulk-flow phantom with known fluid properties and velocity-gradient resolution.
Main Results:
- The model predicts complex signal intensity profiles with multiple segments of MR signal loss.
- Signal loss depends on TR, TE, flow direction, slice timing, and adjacent slice proximity.
- Observed bright signal crescents/rings in the inferior vena cava and portal vein are explained by the model.
Conclusions:
- The developed computer model accurately predicts MR signal behavior in flowing blood.
- The model aids in understanding and explaining flow artifacts in clinical MR imaging.
- The bulk-flow phantom serves as a valuable tool for calibrating flow-sensitive MR sequences.