Anthropomorphic Head MRI Phantoms: Technical Development, Brain Imaging Applications, and Future Prospects.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Traditional phantoms have limitations in replicating human experimental conditions.
• Advancements in 3D printing and tissue-mimicking materials have enabled sophisticated anthropomorphic head phantom development.
• Anthropomorphic head phantoms are crucial for accurate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive review of anthropomorphic head MRI phantoms.
• To summarize phantom preparation methods and applications in MRI.
• To identify challenges and optimized strategies in phantom fabrication.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was performed using Google Scholar.
• Search terms focused on anthropomorphic head MRI phantoms, excluding digital or animal models.
• Literature was categorized by simulated physical properties, preparation methods, and applications.

Main Results:

• Two primary 3D printing manufacturing methods (direct and indirect) were identified, each with distinct advantages.
• Quantitative comparisons revealed discrepancies between phantom-simulated and actual physical properties.
• Key fabrication challenges include long-term stability, bubble formation, and susceptibility matching.

Conclusions:

• Optimized strategies exist to address identified phantom fabrication challenges.
• Future head phantoms will incorporate multidimensional simulations (anatomical, physical, physiological, functional).
• Advancements in phantom technology will accelerate the clinical translation of novel MRI techniques.