Projection-reconstruction methods: fast imaging sequences and data processing

New, rapid two- and three-dimensional imaging sequences based on steady-state gradient echoes and projection-reconstruction (PR) techniques are proposed. Quantitative studies show that fast PR sequences and classical, fast gradient-echo Fourier transform sequences lead to identical contrasts. In order to minimize inhomogeneity effects, a particular focus has been placed on echo-time reduction. The use of a weighting window permits one to acquire severely truncated echoes; partial k-space scanning may be considered.