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Improved Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Using a Flexible Metasurface
Vladislav Koloskov1, Viktor Puchnin1, Evgeniy Koreshin1
1School of Physics and Engineering, ITMO University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation.
Abstract:
Recent advancements in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques are promising for the detection of fetal abnormalities, and MRI may supplement or replace prenatal ultrasound scans in the future. In particular, the interest of scientific and medical communities in high-field (3T) MRI continues to grow due to its improved contrast-to-noise and signal-to-noise ratios compared to clinical MRI of lower field strength (1.5T). However, 3T MRI shows more prominent dielectric artifacts due to constructive and destructive interference of standing waves inside the body at these frequencies. Here, we present a concept of passive radiofrequency shimming using metasurface-based pads to improve image quality in fetal MRI at 3T. The proposed metasurface increases the efficiency and homogeneity of the radiofrequency magnetic field, reducing dielectric artifacts in the fetal body and brain images. We offer an ultralight and compact passive way to improve 3T imaging of fetal brain and body structures, simplifying clinical workflows and decreasing the procedure time.
Insights
Metasurface pads passively improve 3 Tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for fetal scans. This technology enhances image quality by reducing artifacts, offering a simpler, faster method for prenatal diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is advancing for fetal abnormality detection, potentially replacing ultrasound.
- High-field 3 Tesla (3T) MRI offers superior image quality but suffers from increased dielectric artifacts.
- These artifacts stem from standing wave interference at higher radiofrequency fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel passive radiofrequency (RF) shimming technique for fetal MRI at 3T.
- To enhance radiofrequency magnetic field homogeneity and efficiency.
- To reduce dielectric artifacts in fetal MRI scans.
Main Methods:
- Development of metasurface-based pads for passive RF shimming.
- Application of these pads in 3T MRI examinations of fetal subjects.
- Evaluation of image quality improvements, focusing on artifact reduction and signal homogeneity.
Main Results:
- The metasurface pads effectively increased the efficiency and homogeneity of the RF magnetic field.
- Significant reduction in dielectric artifacts was observed in fetal body and brain images.
- Improved image quality was achieved without active components or complex adjustments.
Conclusions:
- Metasurface-based passive RF shimming is a viable strategy to improve 3T fetal MRI.
- This approach offers an ultralight, compact, and passive solution for enhancing prenatal imaging.
- The technique has the potential to simplify clinical workflows and reduce examination times.
