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Interventional MRI at high-field (1.5 T): needle artifacts
H Liu1, A J Martin, C L Truwit
1Center of Image Guided Therapy, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455, USA. liu@sparky.drad.umn.edu
Abstract:
A better understanding of the appearance of a biopsy needle as well as its interaction with various sequence parameters in MRI is beneficial for its application in interventional MRI. As an extension of previous researchers' contributions, we investigate the specific characteristics of MR image artifacts associated with the tip of a biopsy needle when it is approximately parallel to the main magnetic field. The origin of the needle tip artifact, which exhibits as a blooming ball, was studied using MRI techniques and numerical simulation using the finite element method (FEM). Satisfactory agreement between theory and experiment has been achieved. Results showed that the image artifacts associated with biopsy needle are present and dependent on imaging parameters, but the artifacts can be reduced if optimal imaging parameters were used. Images of actual human brain tumor biopsies performed using the same needle under MRI guidance and monitoring demonstrated this artifact.
Insights
Understanding MRI artifacts from biopsy needles is crucial for interventional procedures. This study reveals artifacts depend on imaging parameters but can be minimized with optimal settings, improving MRI-guided biopsies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
- Radiology
Background:
- Interventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) requires precise visualization of instruments like biopsy needles.
- Understanding MRI artifacts generated by biopsy needles is essential for accurate guidance during procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics and origin of MRI image artifacts from biopsy needle tips.
- To determine the influence of various MRI sequence parameters on these artifacts.
- To identify strategies for reducing needle-induced artifacts in MRI-guided interventions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized MRI techniques to observe needle tip artifacts.
- Employed numerical simulation with the finite element method (FEM) to study artifact origins.
- Validated simulation results against experimental data.
- Examined artifacts during actual MRI-guided human brain tumor biopsies.
Main Results:
- Biopsy needle tips generate distinct "blooming ball" artifacts in MRI.
- Artifact appearance is dependent on specific MRI sequence parameters.
- Theoretical models and experimental results showed good agreement.
- Artifacts were significantly reduced by optimizing imaging parameters.
- Observed artifacts in real-time during human brain tumor biopsies.
Conclusions:
- MRI artifacts from biopsy needles are a predictable phenomenon influenced by imaging parameters.
- Optimizing MRI sequence parameters can effectively minimize these artifacts.
- This research enhances the safety and accuracy of MRI-guided biopsy procedures.