Radiofrequency head coil with breathing mask

Abstract

An embodiment of the present application provides a radio frequency head coil (300), i.e., an RF head coil. The RF head coil (300) includes a coil former (310) and a breathing mask (320), wherein the coil former includes at least a first leg and a second leg, wherein the first leg and the second leg are arranged at a distance from each other to define a space therebetween, the coil former (310) is at least segmentally flexible and has at least one first fastening portion (315, 316), wherein the at least one first fastening portion is arranged adjacent to the space (314), and the breathing mask includes a gas An outlet (324) and at least one second fastening portion (322, 323), wherein, in an operable state, the gas outlet (324) is arranged in the space (314), in the operable state, the RF head coil (300) is adapted to be arranged to at least partially surround the head of a patient (S) and the second fastening portion (322, 323) is adapted to be fastened to the first fastening portion (315, 316), the gas outlet (324) being arranged in the space (314).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to medical imaging and in particular to a radio frequency head coil, an RF head coil and a magnetic resonance imaging system (MRI system). Background Art

[0002] In medical imaging, and in particular in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), one of the goals can be considered to be to minimize or avoid patient movement during image acquisition. This is because motion in the image can result in blurring, shadows, etc., which can compromise image clarity or, in general, image quality.

[0003] Thus, one can try, for example, to immobilize the patient so that he does not move as much as possible, or to monitor his movements and perform imaging when the patient is not moving.

[0004] Many options have been proposed for immobilizing a patient during image acquisition. One example is US 2010 / 0329414 A1, in which a patient is held in a fixed position on a patient support table using an immobilization device provided as a molded head mask.

[0005] JP 200634310 A discloses a head coil as an MR (Magnetic Resonance) component capable of easily guiding a gas tube from the head coil to the outside, the gas tube being connected to a gas inhalation mask to cover a subject's nose and mouth.

[0006] US 2015 / 0231357 A1 discloses systems and methods for delivering a gas mixture to a human inside an MRI scanner, including simultaneous monitoring and recording of physiological parameters.

[0007] US 2015 / 0196723 A1 discloses a gas flow indicator device.

[0008] US 2014 / 0073908 A1 discloses a magnetic resonance image recording unit for recording at least parts of a patient during a magnetic resonance examination.

[0009] US 2019 / 219648 A1 discloses an RF coil using an elastic substrate that can be stretched and / or curled around a target anatomy.

[0010] US 2009 / 088627 A1 discloses a head support assembly in an MRI scanner gantry.

[0011] Additionally, in MRI, radio frequency coils (RF coils) can be used as receivers and sometimes transmitters of radio frequency (RF) signals generated in the MRI. Such RF coils can complicate patient immobilization or patient motion monitoring, for example. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Therefore, there may be a need for improvements in magnetic resonance imaging, particularly in terms of improved radiofrequency head coils.

[0013] The objects of the present invention are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims, wherein further embodiments are included in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the aspects of the invention described below are equally applicable to radiofrequency head coils, RF head coils, and magnetic resonance imaging systems (MRI systems), LINAC systems, MR-PET systems, or MR-HIFU systems.

[0014] According to a first aspect, a radio frequency head coil is provided, i.e., an RF head coil. The RF head coil comprises:

[0015] a coil former comprising at least a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and the second leg being arranged at a distance from each other to define a space therebetween, the coil former being at least sectionally flexible and having at least one first fastening portion, the at least one first fastening portion being arranged adjacent to the space, and

[0016] a breathing mask comprising a gas outlet and at least one second fastening portion,

[0017] wherein, in an operable state, the gas outlet is provided in the space, in which the RF head coil is adapted to be arranged to at least sectionally surround a patient's head and the second fastening portion is adapted to be fastened to the first fastening portion.

[0018] The RF head coil can be provided as a so-called birdcage coil or the like. In at least some embodiments, the RF head coil can be provided as an MRI coil array having multiple channels (e.g., 8, 16, 32, or 64 channels). Furthermore, the RF head coil can be configured as a receive-only coil or a transmit and receive coil. It can also be patient-specific.

[0019] The space between the legs may also be referred to as an opening. The first fastening portion may be configured for a passive connection, an active connection, a combined passive / active connection, and / or a material connection between the RF head coil and the breathing mask, and is particularly configured for an adhesive connection, a mechanical connection, etc. between the RF head coil and the breathing mask, wherein the mechanical fastener may preferably be made of a magnetic resonance compatible material.

[0020] The breathing mask can be dedicated to the patient and adapted to cover the patient's nose or mouth, or both. The second fastening portion can be configured for a passive connection, an active connection, a passive / active connection, and / or a material connection between the RF head coil and the breathing mask, and is particularly configured for an adhesive connection, a mechanical connection, etc. between the RF head coil and the breathing mask, wherein the mechanical fastener can preferably be made of a magnetic resonance compatible material.

[0021] The effect of the MRI system may be that the RF head coil and the breathing mask are combined into one component. Thus, the functionality of the RF head coil and the breathing mask can be combined in one component, thereby simplifying the setup of the patient for, for example, an MRI.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the respiratory mask may include: a mask body, which is dimensionally adapted to the facial contours of the patient, and the at least one second fastening portion, which is arranged at the mask body and is suitable for being attached to the at least one first fastening portion of the coil former, wherein the gas outlet opens to the inside of the mask body and is suitable for being connected to the gas supply.

[0023] The mask body can provide a seal to allow airtight placement on the patient's face. The second fastening portion can provide a releasable connection to the RF head coil, and in particular to the coil former or the first fastening portion, so that the breathing mask can be released and cleaned or replaced separately as needed.

[0024] In an embodiment, the breathing mask may be selected from: a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) mask, a sedation mask preferably adapted for supplying a gaseous sedative, and the like.

[0025] For example, oxygen, sedatives or other medical gases can be supplied from the gas supply to the patient's respiratory system via the gas outlet of the mask. In this case, inhaled sedation can be considered a form of sedation in which an inhalable drug is consciously administered. The gas supply can be provided as an external device that can be controlled remotely or autonomously. For example, when a sedation mask is selected, the patient can be kept sedated during imaging, thereby reducing the MRI scan time by using a combination of a sedation mask and an RF head coil that allows sedation compliance to be maintained during the MRI scan. This can allow high quality diagnostic images to be obtained by sedating the patient to prevent the patient from moving. In this way, motion in the picture can be prevented, which would cause blurring and shadows, thereby sacrificing the clarity of the photo.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the breathing mask may be manufactured by additive manufacturing.

[0027] For example, a 3D (three-dimensional) optical scanner can allow for the detection of a patient's head and / or facial geometry, and a program (e.g., software) can guide and select the best-fitting geometry. 3D printing and / or selecting from a variety of sizes can provide an optimal interface with the patient's skin / surface. By using the geometry data, the best-fitting RF head coil can also be selected as a modular component, and the two parts can be combined. Furthermore, a complete respiratory mask can be constructed using 3D printing by using a predefined RF head coil geometry and / or printing conductive tracks onto a 3D-formed surface, thereby allowing for a fully integrated design of the RF head coil and respiratory mask. Furthermore, in at least some embodiments, multi-material 3D printing can also include forming a rigid base mask (e.g., a mask body) using a first material and then forming an interface with the skin (e.g., a seal or sealing portion) using a second material (e.g., silicone). In at least some embodiments, additional features can be added to the respiratory mask via 3D printing, such as windows for additional camera-based optical measurements or other sensor integration.

[0028] In at least some embodiments, the respirator as a whole or one or more parts thereof can be disposable.

[0029] Additionally, in at least some embodiments, the respiratory mask as a whole or one or more parts thereof can be printable (particularly 3D printable) or can be printed on a flexible part or portion of a coil former. The coil former can serve as a seal, gasket, etc., can preferably be biocompatible, and can be selectively attached to or removed from at least one other part or portion of the coil former.

[0030] In at least some embodiments, an adapter can be disposed between the coil and the seal, and the adapter and / or the seal can be disposable.

[0031] In embodiments, the respiratory mask may be at least partially optically transparent.

[0032] Thus, during an MRI scan, the patient may be observed directly or by using an optical detection module (eg, a camera, etc.). Additionally, the patient's sedation state may be observed and / or controlled by the optical detection module.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the breathing mask may comprise an indicator module, preferably comprising a light guide (e.g. an optical fiber, etc.) adapted to be illuminated, the indicator module being adapted to optically indicate the current delivery status of gas being delivered to the gas outlet, preferably being adapted to optically indicate the current delivery status of sedative being delivered to the gas outlet.

[0034] The indicator module, which may also be referred to as a safety indicator, displays the current delivery status of, for example, a sedative or other medical gas. The indicator module may be illuminated in a first manner (e.g., a first color) to indicate a first delivery status (e.g., no gas delivery), and may be illuminated in a second manner (e.g., a second color) to indicate a second delivery status (e.g., gas delivery is currently in progress). Additionally or alternatively, the indicator module may be used to indicate the patient's respiratory status. For example, the indicator module may be disposed on or in a respiratory mask.

[0035] In an embodiment, the fastening means adapted to fasten the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion together is selected from: a mechanical fastening means, preferably adapted for selective release, an adhesive or the like.

[0036] Thus, the coil former and the breathing mask can be separated from each other when necessary (eg for cleaning etc.).

[0037] According to an embodiment, the coil former and the respiratory mask may be integrally formed.

[0038] In other words, the coil former and the breathing mask can be integrated into one unit, thereby simplifying the use of the RF head coil by having fewer parts.

[0039] In an embodiment, the coil former may be manufactured by additive manufacturing.

[0040] Thus, the shape and / or size of the RF head coil may be adjusted to the patient.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the coil former may be at least partially optically transparent.

[0042] Thus, the patient's view is not obstructed and the patient can be monitored optically through the coil former.

[0043] In an embodiment, the coil former may include at least a first coil former portion and a second coil former portion in a circumferential direction thereof related to the operable state, wherein at least one of the first coil portion and the second coil portion is optically transparent.

[0044] One of the first coil former part and the second coil former part can be referred to as a base support, which is suitable for supporting the patient's head from the back of the head, and the other of the first coil part and the second coil part can be referred to as a cover part, which is suitable for covering the patient's head from the front of the head or face. The first coil former part and the second coil former part can be attached to each other. Preferably, the second coil part can be optically transparent and can be suitable for including a breathing mask. The RF head coil can be formed so that: in the transparent field of view of the RF head coil, one or more guides can be thin, flexible and / or lightweight. For example, the capacitor can be omitted and one or more distributed wires can be molded from a flexible transparent plastic. At least one of the first coil former part and the second coil former part can be flexible, wherein preferably the coil former part forming the cover is flexible. Therefore, the RF head coil can be further improved for MRI.

[0045] According to an embodiment, at least one optical detection module (preferably one of a camera and an optical sensor) can be mounted on the coil former and / or the breathing mask, wherein, when the RF head coil is in the operable state, at least one of the camera and the optical sensor can face the breathing mask and / or the patient (preferably facing the patient's face).

[0046] Thus, the patient's sedation state can be determined and / or monitored and / or controlled optically. In addition, the patient's movement can be monitored. This allows the anesthesiologist to monitor the patient remotely and the anesthesiologist can sit closer to the MR scanner rather than directly next to the bore.

[0047] In an embodiment, the breathing mask and / or the RF head coil may comprise one or more optical markers adapted for optical detection by an optical detection module. The optical markers may be arranged in pairs such that a first optical marker (e.g. from a coil former) may be assigned to a second optical marker (e.g. of the mask) and vice versa, whereby the correct positioning relative to the patient and / or the correct fixation of the fastening part may be determined optically. In order to provide guided positioning and / or fixation, the optical detection module may be adapted to provide a signal which may be used to generate instructions for a user (e.g. a patient, a clinician, a technical assistant, etc.), which signal may be used, for example, to guide the user from an actual position to a target position. Additionally, the optical markers may be used to detect movement of the patient.

[0048] According to an embodiment, at least one guide is at least partially arranged in or on the breathing mask.

[0049] For example, locally arranged coil guides and / or electronic preamplifier equipment can be located in or on the breathing mask. This can allow MR-based methods to determine whether the breathing mask is correctly positioned and / or, for example, to check whether the breathing mask fits tightly. For example, one or more guide rings of the RF head coil can be arranged in or on the breathing mask, for example, embedded in the material of the breathing mask. Preferably, one or more rings can be arranged in the seal of the breathing mask. With respect to general RF head coil design rules, this can also be beneficial because it can maximize the cross-section of the rings and minimize the distance from the coil to the patient.

[0050] In embodiments, the coil former may be at least sectionally flexible, and in the operable state, the circumferential free ends of the coil former may be connected to one another by the respiratory mask being secured to each of the free ends. In at least some embodiments, the coil may be at least partially printed on the flexible section of the coil former.

[0051] This allows the free ends of the loop former to be held together via the respiratory mask and while the respiratory mask is aligned towards the nose and / or mouth.

[0052] According to a second aspect, a magnetic resonance imaging system, i.e., an MRI system, is provided. The MRI system comprises:

[0053] chamber,

[0054] Radiofrequency head coil, i.e., RF head coil, which comprises:

[0055] a coil former comprising at least a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and the second leg being arranged at a distance from each other to define a space therebetween, the coil former having at least one first fastening portion arranged adjacent to the space, and

[0056] a breathing mask comprising a gas outlet and at least one second fastening portion,

[0057] wherein, in an operable state, the gas outlet is provided in the space, in which the RF head coil is adapted to be arranged to at least sectionally surround a patient's head and the second fastening portion is adapted to be fastened to the first fastening portion.

[0058] Optionally, the MRI system may be part of a magnetic resonance (MR) guided radiation therapy system.

[0059] The RF head coil may be the RF head coil according to one or more embodiments of the first aspect.

[0060] The effect of the MRI system may be that the RF head coil and the breathing mask are combined into one component. Thus, the functionality of the RF head coil and the breathing mask can be combined in one component, thereby simplifying the setup of the patient for, for example, an MRI.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the MRI system may further comprise a user guidance module adapted to support at least guided positioning of the breathing mask and / or the RF head coil within the bore by providing user feedback.

[0062] In this case, the user receiving the user feedback may be the patient himself, a clinician, a remote operator, etc. The user feedback may include one or more of optical feedback, acoustic feedback, etc. The optical user feedback may include one or more of a direction light (for example, on the inner wall of the bore), an optical projection of a direction indication, etc. The acoustic user feedback may include a direction notification, etc. In addition, the guidance module may be adapted to support the guided fixation of at least one of the breathing mask and / or the RF head coil in the bore by providing user feedback. In particular, the user feedback may be one or more of optical feedback, acoustic feedback, etc. (including, for example, a direction indication for attaching the breathing mask to the RF head coil, etc.).

[0063] In an embodiment, the user guidance module may further comprise at least one optical detection module, preferably comprising at least one of a camera and an optical sensor, the at least one optical detection module being adapted to provide data at least about the current position of the breathing mask and / or the RF head coil. The user guidance module may further be adapted to determine a relative position based on the provided current position and a desired target position, and to determine user feedback indicating at least one of a direction of movement and a distance of movement from the detected or determined current position to the target position. To provide user feedback, the user guidance module may further comprise one or more of a display (e.g. on an inner wall of the bore), a directional light, an optical projection module for projecting a directional indication, a speaker for providing acoustic user feedback, etc.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the MRI system may further comprise a patient monitoring module adapted to perform at least one of: (i) detecting a sedation state of the patient, and (ii) detecting movement of the patient based at least on a detected current position of the breathing mask and / or the RF head coil relative to the patient or another suitable reference point.

[0065] In an embodiment, the patient monitoring module may comprise at least one optical detection module, preferably comprising one or more of a camera and an optical sensor, and the at least one optical detection module may be mounted on the coil former or the breathing mask, wherein, when the RF head coil is in the operable state, at least one of the camera and the optical sensor may face the breathing mask and / or the patient (preferably facing the patient's face).

[0066] According to an embodiment, sedation is optionally detected by using at least one of: (i) at least one of a camera and an optical sensor mounted on the bore and facing the patient, and (ii) at least one of a camera and an optical sensor mounted on the coil former or the breathing mask.

[0067] In an embodiment, the sedation state may be detected by stimulating the patient with gas supplied through the gas outlet.

[0068] For example, when not in the sedation delivery phase, the breathing mask can be fitted / actuated with an air jet delivery system that can be adapted to deliver air (e.g., cool air, hot air, air bubbles, etc.) to stimulate the patient response system to assess the patient's sedation state. The bubbles can also be used to create positive pressure ventilation for respiratory support or as tactile feedback for respiratory control.

[0069] According to embodiments, the respiratory mask can be connected to an external system that can be remotely controlled or autonomously operated through built-in safety features. For example, during sedation delivery, the respiratory mask can be optically illuminated differently using, for example, embedded integrated optical fibers for diffuse light, enabling the creation of clear embargoes during sedation delivery and normal breathing phases. Additionally, during sedation delivery, the respiratory mask's tightening module can be at least slightly tightened, enabling control of the sedation delivery volume.

[0070] In an embodiment, the MRI system may further comprise a magnetic resonance (MR) image acquisition device, wherein the MR image acquisition device may be adapted to detect a guide at least partially arranged at the respiratory mask in one or more MR images captured by the MR image acquisition device, and to determine at least a current position of the guide and / or the respiratory mask.

[0071] For example, at least one guide ring of the RF coil can be positioned at the respiratory mask (e.g., embedded in the mask seal). For example, as part of an MR survey scan, an MR image can be acquired in a coronal orientation (the anterior-posterior coordinates can be calculated based on the known position of the RF head coil), for example without selecting any slices or only selecting a thick slice covering the area of ​​the respiratory mask. Signals for this image can be received using only the seal guide ring elements, and a small flip angle can be used for signal excitation. This effectively provides a projection image that includes projections of the skin immediately adjacent to the seal and protruding into the coronal plane. The resulting image may essentially consist of a bright line with the shape of the seal and noise elsewhere. If the mask does not fit properly in a certain section of the seal, the corresponding signal in the projection image will be reduced or even absent. The image can be automatically analyzed using suitable image processing methods, and the operator or patient can be prompted to correct the position of the respiratory mask with an automated command, such as "Securely attach the upper left side of the mask to the skin." Alternatively, proper mask fit can be manually checked at the beginning of the MRI procedure. The projection image described above can then be acquired as the first image in the MRI procedure. This first image can be used as a reference to indicate a tight fit of the respiratory mask. This acquisition can be repeated periodically during an imaging session, and the difference between the current image and the reference image can be calculated. This difference can indicate that the fit is no longer tight.

[0072] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following drawings:

[0074] Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a magnetic resonance imaging system (MRI system) according to an embodiment;

[0075] Figure 2 shows a schematic top view of a radio frequency head coil including a breathing mask according to an embodiment;

[0076] Figure 3 shows a schematic top view of a radio frequency head coil including a breathing mask according to an embodiment; and

[0077] Figure 4 A schematic top view of a radio frequency head coil including a breathing mask according to an embodiment is shown.

[0078] List of reference numerals:

[0079] 100 Medical Imaging Systems

[0080] 110MR chamber

[0081] 120 patient support table

[0082] 130 control equipment

[0083] 140MR image acquisition equipment

[0084] 200 Gas Supply Department

[0085] 300RF head coil

[0086] 310 Coil Former

[0087] 3101 first coil former part

[0088] 3102 Second coil former part

[0089] 311 coil

[0090] 312 first leg

[0091] 313 second leg

[0092] 314 Space

[0093] 315 first fastening part

[0094] 316 first fastening part

[0095] 317 Mark

[0096] 320 breathing mask

[0097] 321 mask body

[0098] 322 second fastening part

[0099] 323 second fastening part

[0100] 324 gas outlet

[0101] 325 mark

[0102] 326 indicator module

[0103] 327 guide

[0104] 400 optical detection modules

[0105] 500 user feedback module DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] Figure 1Shown is a schematic side view of a medical imaging system 100. In at least some embodiments, the system 100 can be operated based on magnetic resonance (MR) and can be specifically provided as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, which optionally can be part of a magnetic resonance (MR) guided radiation therapy system.

[0107] The system 100 comprises an MR scanner having an MR bore 110 , a patient support 120 , a control device 130 comprising at least a data processing device, an MR image acquisition device 140 , a gas supply 200 adapted to store and distribute medical gas, and a radio frequency head coil (RF head coil) 300 .

[0108] according to Figure 1 A patient S (which may be a human patient) is placed on top of a patient support 120 (which, in the operational state of the system 100, is arranged within the MR bore 110). Furthermore, in this operational state, the RF head coil 300 is arranged to at least partially surround the head of the patient S. A control device 130 is connected to the MR scanner and is adapted to electronically control and / or monitor the operation of the MR scanner and / or receive signals (particularly image signals) from the MR scanner. Furthermore, the control device 130 is connected to the RF head coil 300 and is adapted to electronically control and / or monitor the operation of the RF head coil 300 and / or receive signals from and / or transmit signals to the RF head coil 300. Furthermore, the control device 130 is connected to the gas supply 200 and is adapted to electronically control and / or monitor the operation of the gas supply 200.

[0109] The RF head coil 300 includes a coil former 310, which may also be referred to as a housing, etc., and may carry one or more coils 311 and may optionally include one or more of guides, loops, circuitry, etc., suitable for at least detecting MR signals. The coil former 310 includes at least a first leg 312 and a second leg 313, which are arranged at a distance from each other to define a space 314 therebetween. Adjacent to the space 314, the coil former 310 includes at least one first fastening portion 315, 316 arranged adjacent to the space 314. In at least some embodiments, the coil former 310 includes at least one first fastening portion 315 arranged at the first leg 312 and at least one additional first fastening portion 316 arranged at the second leg 313. In at least some embodiments, the coil former 310 may be at least segmentally flexible, which may be understood as, for example, elastic deformability, flexibility, etc. Additionally, in at least some embodiments, coil former 310 can be at least partially optically transparent.

[0110] The RF head coil 300 further comprises a breathing mask 320 which is arranged or disposed in a space 314 formed between the first leg 312 and the second leg 313 of the coil former 310, at least in an operable state of the RF head coil 300 and / or the system 100. Typically, the breathing mask 320 may be provided as a CPAP mask, a sedation mask preferably adapted for supplying a gaseous sedative, or the like. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the breathing mask 320 is provided as a sedation mask. Therefore, the gas supply 200 has stored a sedative agent, which is distributed to the patient S via the gas outlet 324 fluidly connected to the gas supply 200.

[0111] like Figure 1 As shown, a respiratory mask 320 is positioned on the face of a patient S using a base and covers the patient's nose and mouth, wherein another base, for example, only on the patient's nose or only on the patient's mouth, is conceivable. In at least some embodiments, the respiratory mask 320 can be at least semi-customized for the patient S or fully customized and / or dedicated to the patient S. For example, the respiratory mask 320 can be manufactured using additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing). To this end, a 3D scanner can be used to first scan and / or detect the geometry of the patient's head and / or face. Based on the resulting geometric data, the best-fitting respiratory mask 320 can then be selected as a modular component, or the respiratory mask 320 can be 3D printed. Furthermore, multi-material 3D printing can be used to combine, for example, a mask body 321 made of a first material with a patient skin sealing interface made of a second material. In addition, windows can be added for additional optical measurements, such as camera-based or other sensor integration.

[0112] Respirator 320 includes a mask body 321 dimensionally adapted to the patient's facial contours and includes at least one second fastening portion 322, 323 disposed on mask body 321 and adapted to be attached to at least one first fastening portion 314, 315 of coil former 310. In the illustrated operational state, one of second fastening portions 322, 323 is fastened or attached to one of first fastening portions 322, 323, and the other of second fastening portions 322, 323 is fastened or attached to the other of first fastening portions 315, 316. For example, fastening can be achieved using mechanical fasteners, adhesives, etc. In this manner, respiratory mask 320 can be released from coil former 310, etc., to be cleaned. However, in at least some embodiments, respiratory mask 320 can be integrated into coil former 310 so as to become one with the coil former 310. In this way, the coil former 310 and the respiratory mask 320 may be at least semi-customized for the patient S. Note that in the latter case, the fastening between the coil former 310 and the respiratory mask 320 is not necessarily releasable.

[0113] Furthermore, at the mask body 321, the respiratory mask 320 comprises a gas outlet 324 which opens to the inside of the mask body 321 and is adapted to be fluidically connected to the gas supply 200, such as Figure 1 As schematically illustrated in FIG. In at least some embodiments, the fastening portions 322, 323 are arranged radially outside the gas outlet 324. The respiratory mask 320 can be made of different materials, wherein, for example, the mask body 321 can be made of a relatively hard material, while the seal adapted to come into contact with the skin or surface of the patient S can be made of a relatively soft material (e.g., silicone, etc.).

[0114] Still refer to Figure 1 The system 100 may also include a module for providing at least a semi-automatic or fully-automatic workflow management system, which is particularly suitable for guiding a user in accurately positioning and / or securing the coil former 310 and / or the breathing mask 320, and / or is particularly suitable for monitoring the patient S. Accordingly, in at least some embodiments, the system 100 includes one or more of a user guidance module and a patient monitoring module. The user guidance module and / or the patient monitoring module may be implemented at least in part by the control device 130 (i.e., in software and / or hardware) and may include common components described below.

[0115] like Figure 1As shown, one or more optical detection modules 400 may be arranged in the bore 110. The optical detection module 400 may be configured to optically detect the patient P and / or the RF head coil 300 (particularly the coil former 310 and / or the breathing mask 320). Additionally or alternatively, the optical detection module 400 may be arranged at the coil former 310 and / or the breathing mask 320, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As schematically indicated in FIG. The optical detection module 400 may include one or more cameras, optical sensors, etc., and may be adapted to face the patient P and / or the coil former 310 and / or the respiratory mask 320. Furthermore, the coil former 310 and / or the respiratory mask 320 may include one or more optical markers 317, 325 and / or sensors arranged to allow the actual or current position of the coil former 310 and / or the respiratory mask 320 to be determined by optically detecting the markers using the optical detection module 400. For example, the optical markers 317, 325 and / or sensors may be arranged at the first fastening portion 315, 316 and / or the second fastening portion 322, 323, wherein the relative position of the first fastening portion 315, 316 and the second fastening portion 322, 323 relative to each other can be determined based on the optical detection. Note that the optical detection module 400 is connected to the control device 130.

[0116] In at least some embodiments, the system 100 may also include one or more (preferably at least two) electromagnetic detector modules and / or sensors. These electromagnetic sensors can be aligned with the respiratory mask 320 so as to preferably perform measurements from different positions relative to each other. In addition, one or more electromagnetic sensors can be combined with the optical detection module 400. One or more electromagnetic detector modules can be configured to perform capacitance, inductance, or local resonator measurements. For example, the measurement results can include distance and / or correct placement and / or alignment. The measurement results can be used for autonomous imaging procedures or settings. One or more measurement signals of the electromagnetic detector modules can be processed, and if it is determined that the corresponding signal levels of at least two electromagnetic detector modules are in the same value range or window (e.g., voltage level or range, etc.), an action can be determined. For example, the system can provide instructions to the patient, such as instructions to press the respiratory mask 320 against the face, etc. For example, if the breathing mask 320 is not accurately positioned, the measurement signals of the two or more electromagnetic detector modules can indicate a signal difference and a feedback signal, and / or a feedback signal and / or an alarm can be generated, and / or the feedback signal can be provided to the system, the patient, the remote operator and / or the anesthesiologist, etc.

[0117] In addition, if Figure 1As shown, one or more user feedback modules 500 (e.g., modules suitable for providing optical feedback, acoustic feedback to the user, etc.) can be arranged in the bore 110 or at another suitable location. In this case, the user receiving the user feedback can be the patient himself, a clinician, a remote operator, etc. The user feedback can include one or more of optical feedback, acoustic feedback, etc. The optical user feedback can include one or more optical output modules, such as direction lights (e.g., on the inner wall of the bore 110), optical projections of direction indications, etc. The acoustic user feedback can include direction announcements, etc., and the acoustic user feedback can be output using a speaker, etc. Note that the user feedback module 500 is connected to the control device 130 and can be suitable for interacting directly or indirectly with the optical detection module 400.

[0118] Figure 2 The RF head coil 300 according to an embodiment is illustrated. In at least some embodiments, the respiratory mask 320 may also include one or more indicator modules 326 (e.g., optical fibers adapted to be illuminated by light) adapted to optically indicate the current delivery of gas to the gas outlet 324. For example, the indicator module 326 may be illuminated in a first color when gas is currently being delivered, and in a second color when gas is not currently being delivered. The indicator module 326 may be connected to the control device 130.

[0119] In at least some embodiments, the coil former 310 can be at least segmentally flexible, and in an operable state, the circumferential free ends of the coil former 310 can be connected to each other by a respiratory mask 320 secured to each of the free ends, as in Figure 2 As indicated in .

[0120] Still refer to Figure 2 In at least some embodiments, at least one guide 327 can be at least partially disposed in or on the respiratory mask 320. The guide 327 can be detectable during MR imaging. The guide 327 can be detected by the MR image acquisition device 140 to determine the current position of the respiratory mask 320.

[0121] Figure 3An RF head coil 300 according to an embodiment is illustrated. In at least some embodiments, the coil former 310 may include at least a first coil former portion 3101 and a second coil former portion 3102 in its circumferential direction in relation to an operable state, wherein at least one of the first coil former portion 3101 and the second coil former portion 3102 is optically transparent. One of the first coil former portion 3101 and the second coil former portion 3102 may be referred to as a base support adapted to support the patient's head from the back of the head, and the other of the first coil portion 3101 and the second coil portion 3102 may be referred to as a covering part adapted to cover the patient's head from the front of the head or face. The first coil former portion 3101 and the second coil former portion 3102 are capable of being attached to each other. The second coil portion 3102 may be optically transparent and may be adapted to include a breathing mask 320, as in Figure 3 Additionally, at least one of the first coil former portion 3101 and the second coil former portion 3102 is flexible, as indicated in Figure 3 Indicated by lines of varying thickness. For example, Figure 3 In some embodiments, first coil former portion 3101 is flexible, while second coil former portion 3102 is rigid. Coil 311 can be partially printed on flexible first coil former portion 3101. Respiratory mask 320 can be arranged on first coil former portion 3101. In at least some embodiments, respiratory mask 320 can be printed on flexible first coil former portion 3101, for example, by additive manufacturing.

[0122] Figure 4 An RF head coil 300 according to an embodiment is shown. It can be seen that a breathing mask 320 is arranged in a space 314 between a first leg 312 and a second leg 313. In this embodiment, the breathing mask 320 is formed separately from the coil former 310 and is attached to the coil former 310. Note that the breathing mask 320 can also be integrally integrated with the coil former 310.

[0123] It should be noted that embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments are described with reference to aerosol generator device claims, while other embodiments are described with reference to nebulizer system claims. However, unless otherwise indicated, a person skilled in the art will infer from the above and following descriptions that, in addition to any combination of features belonging to the same category of subject matter, any combination of features relating to different subject matters is also considered to be disclosed in this application. However, all features can be combined to provide synergistic effects that are more than the simple sum of the features.

[0124] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description should be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive. The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments will be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the claims.

[0125] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the word "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may perform the functions of several items recited in a claim. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A radio frequency head coil (300) for use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), i.e., an RF head coil, comprising: A coil former (310) comprising at least a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and the second leg being arranged at a distance from each other to define a space therebetween, the coil former (310) being at least sectionally flexible and having at least one first fastening portion (315, 316) arranged adjacent to the space (314), and A breathing mask (320) comprising a gas outlet (324) and at least one second fastening portion (322, 323), wherein, in an operable state, the gas outlet (324) is provided in the space (314), in which the RF head coil (300) is adapted to be arranged around the head of a patient (S) and the second fastening portion (322, 323) is adapted to be fastened to the first fastening portion (315, 316).

2. The RF head coil according to claim 1, wherein The breathing mask (320) comprises: a mask body (321) dimensionally adapted to the patient's facial contours, and the at least one second fastening portion (322, 323) provided at the mask body (321) and adapted to be attached to the at least one first fastening portion (315, 316) of the coil former (310), The gas outlet (324) opens to the inner side of the mask body (321) and is suitable for being connected to the gas supply part (200).

3. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The breathing mask (320) is selected from: a CPAP mask, a sedation mask.

4. The RF head coil according to claim 3, wherein The sedation mask is adapted to deliver a gaseous sedative.

5. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The breathing mask (320) is manufactured by additive manufacturing.

6. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The breathing mask (320) includes an indicator module (326) adapted to optically indicate the current delivery of gas to the gas outlet (324).

7. The RF head coil according to claim 6, wherein: The indicator module is an optical fiber adapted to be illuminated.

8. The RF head coil according to claim 6, wherein The gas is a sedative.

9. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: in, The fastening means adapted to fasten the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion together is selected from: a mechanical fastening means, an adhesive.

10. The RF head coil according to claim 9, wherein The mechanical fastening module is adapted for selective release.

11. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The coil former (310) is at least partially optically transparent.

12. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The coil former (310) includes at least a first coil former portion (3101) and a second coil former portion (3102) in a circumferential direction thereof related to the operable state, wherein at least one of the first coil portion and the second coil portion is optically transparent.

13. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: at least one optical detection module (400) mounted on the coil former (310) and / or the breathing mask (320), Wherein, when the RF head coil (300) is in the operable state, the at least one optical detection module (400) faces the breathing mask (320) and / or the patient (S).

14. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least one guide (327) is at least partially arranged in or on the breathing mask.

15. The RF head coil according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: In the operable state, the circumferential free ends of the coil former (310) can be connected to each other by the respiratory mask (320) being fastened to each of the free ends.

16. A magnetic resonance imaging system (100), i.e., an MRI system, comprising: chamber (110), and The radio frequency head coil (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, i.e. an RF head coil.

17. The MRI system according to claim 16, further comprising: A user guidance module is adapted to support at least guided positioning of the breathing mask and / or the RF head coil within the bore by providing user feedback.

18. The MRI system according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising: A patient monitoring module adapted to perform at least one of the following: (i) detecting the patient's sedation state, and (ii) detecting movement of the patient based at least on the detected current position of the breathing mask.

19. The MRI system according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising: Magnetic resonance image acquisition device (140), i.e., MR image acquisition device, The MRI system is adapted to detect a guide (327) at least partially arranged at the breathing mask (320) in one or more MR images captured by the MR image acquisition device, and to determine at least the current position of the guide and / or the breathing mask.

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