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Brachial plexus: MR imaging with a dedicated phased array of surface coils
C E Hayes1, J S Tsuruda, C M Mathis
1Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle 98195-6004, USA.
Radiology
|April 1, 1997
Summary
A new phased array coil significantly improves magnetic resonance imaging of the brachial plexus. This advanced imaging coil enhances signal-to-noise ratio by three to six times compared to traditional body coils.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biophysics
Background:
- Brachial plexus imaging presents challenges due to its complex anatomy.
- Optimizing signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) is crucial for detailed visualization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a phased array surface coil for improved brachial plexus MRI.
- To assess the in vivo S/N performance of the novel coil system.
Main Methods:
- Construction of a six-element phased array surface coil.
- Sequential activation of four-coil subsets during MRI acquisition.
- In vivo S/N measurements at three distinct brachial plexus locations in three volunteers.
Main Results:
- The phased array coil demonstrated a 3-6 fold increase in S/N ratio compared to the body coil.
- Improved signal detection in key regions of the brachial plexus was achieved.
Conclusions:
- Phased array surface coils offer a significant advancement for brachial plexus MRI.
- This technology holds promise for enhanced diagnostic capabilities in neurological imaging.