Method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, as well as a magnetic resonance device for this purpose.

Abstract

Method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the magnetic resonance examination is performed using a magnetic resonance device (10), comprising the following steps: - Recording patient data of at least one patient (15), wherein the recording of patient data involves selecting two or more different measurements, each comprising at least one measurement protocol that includes at least one magnetic resonance examination, - Determining an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the determination of the optimized sequence is carried out by means of a protocol optimization unit (27), wherein, for determining the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, an expected total heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) for different sequences of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is first determined by the protocol optimization unit (27), wherein the component comprises a gradient coil unit (18) of the magnetic resonance device (10), and - Displaying the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols using a display unit (24) of the magnetic resonance device (10).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan using a MRI scanner. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a MRI scanner designed for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one MRI scan.

[0002] In clinical cross-sectional imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is advantageously used due to its high soft tissue contrast. Depending on the imaging sequence, such as TSE (turbo spin echo) or GRE (gradient echo) sequences, and the choice of parameters, such as TE (echo time) and / or TR (relaxation time) parameters, different contrast levels can be generated within the image data.

[0003] Depending on the selected sequence and / or measurement protocol, at least some components of a magnetic resonance device (MRI), particularly the gradient coil unit, are subjected to varying degrees of stress. For example, a diffusion-weighted sequence heats the gradient coil unit more than a T2-weighted sequence. To prevent damage to the MRI, it is therefore necessary to protect individual hardware components from overheating.

[0004] The present invention is based in particular on the objective of enabling optimal utilization of individual components of the magnetic resonance device during a magnetic resonance examination while protecting the individual components from overheating. This objective is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0005] The invention relates to a method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the magnetic resonance examination is carried out using a magnetic resonance device, comprising the following steps: - Registering patient data of at least one patient, wherein the registration of patient data involves selecting two or more different measurements, each comprising at least one measurement protocol that includes at least one magnetic resonance examination, - Determining an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the determination of the optimized sequence is carried out using a protocol optimization unit, - Displaying the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols using a display unit of the magnetic resonance device.

[0006] In this context, the registration of patient data is understood to mean, in particular, the recording of patient data, such as entering patient data and / or retrieving patient data from a memory and / or assigning patient data to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination, for example, a knee examination, etc. The MRI examination preferably comprises two or more different measurements. These two or more different measurements may, for example, include a diffusion capacity measurement and / or a time-of-flight (TOF) measurement, etc. The selection of the two or more different measurements can be performed at least partially automatically by the registration unit based on a selected and / or assigned MRI examination to the patient data, such as an MRI examination with contrast agent administration.Furthermore, patient data registration can also include manually selecting the sequence of two or more measurement protocols, whereby a user, for example, a medical operator, can define the sequence of the two or more different measurements. This manual selection is made via a user interface of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device.

[0007] The optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the at least one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is preferably determined and / or defined using optimization parameters specified by the protocol optimization unit. The optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the at least one MRI scan comprises those parameter settings for the MRI scanner that ensure optimal and / or ideal utilization of individual components of the MRI scanner and / or minimize the probability of overload and / or defect, particularly overheating, of individual components, especially the gradient coil unit, of the MRI scanner.Preferably, the optimized sequence allows for an advantageous parameter range for parameters adjustable by medical personnel, such as, in particular, an echo time parameter (TE parameter) or a relaxation time parameter (TR parameter), etc. If a manual sequence of the two or more measurement protocols was selected during patient registration, the optimized sequence may differ from the selected sequence.

[0008] The protocol optimization unit preferably comprises software and / or computer programs required for selecting the optimized sequence of measurement protocols. The protocol optimization unit can be integrated into a system control unit of the magnetic resonance device or be comprised of a separate unit. Preferably, the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is performed automatically and / or autonomously by means of the protocol optimization unit.

[0009] The presentation of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols preferably includes a graphical representation and / or display of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for medical operating personnel. Preferably, the presentation unit comprises a graphical output unit, such as a monitor and / or a display and / or a touch display, etc.

[0010] The invention enables optimal and / or ideal utilization of individual components, in particular the gradient coil unit and the magnetic resonance device, while simultaneously preventing overloading of individual components of the magnetic resonance device, such as the gradient coil unit. Furthermore, it allows for the particularly simple determination and / or definition of an optimized sequence of two or more measurement protocols for magnetic resonance examinations, such as those involving magnetic resonance sequences implemented by the medical personnel themselves. This enables time-saving preparation of the magnetic resonance examination for the medical personnel. In addition, the medical personnel can be advantageously supported in planning the magnetic resonance examination, thus facilitating a time-saving planning process.

[0011] Furthermore, it is proposed that during patient registration, the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination should be selectable. Preferably, the selection of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols should be made manually by a user. This allows a user to define a desired and / or preferred sequence of the two or more measurement protocols and / or communicate this to a system, particularly the protocol optimization unit.

[0012] A further embodiment of the invention provides that, for determining the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, at least one expected total heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device for different sequences of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is determined by the protocol optimization unit. The expected total heating is understood here to mean, in particular, the heating of the at least one component that it experiences during the entire magnetic resonance examination. The at least one component preferably comprises a gradient coil unit of the magnetic resonance device.For example, when determining the expected total heating of the gradient coil unit of the magnetic resonance device, a maximum permissible gradient strength and / or a slew rate is determined, whereby the maximum permissible gradient strength and / or the slew rate can be determined iteratively, and the expected total heating is determined and / or estimated based on these and other parameters. In this way, an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination can be provided particularly easily. In particular, different sequences with different levels of optimization can be presented to a user for selection.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is determined by minimizing the overall heating of the at least one component of the magnetic resonance device. This provides advantageous protection for individual components of the magnetic resonance device, particularly against undesirable overheating. Preferably, to achieve minimal overall heating of the at least one component of the magnetic resonance device, the two or more individual measurements are divided in such a way that the expected heating is as uniform as possible over the period of the at least one magnetic resonance examination.For example, individual measurements that are expected to generate particularly high temperatures, such as diffusion or time-of-flight (TOF) measurements, can be spaced as far apart as possible within the optimized sequence. This can advantageously prevent two measurements that are expected to generate particularly high temperatures from being performed consecutively within a schedule and / or an optimized sequence of two or more measurement protocols, thus preventing overheating and / or overloading of components.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance (MRI) study be determined based on the expected heating of at least one component of the MRI apparatus for at least one of the two or more different measurements. This allows for a particularly fast determination of the optimized sequence, since the expected heating of the at least one component of the MRI apparatus, such as a gradient coil unit, may be limited to measurements involving a particularly high gradient strength setting. Moreover, this approach allows the optimized sequence of the measurement protocols to be determined based on the expected heating of the at least one component for the at least one measurement of the MRI apparatus.Particularly advantageous, however, is the determination of the expected heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device for all of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination.

[0015] A further embodiment of the invention provides that, based on the expected heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device and / or the expected total heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device, an available parameter space for the magnetic resonance examination is determined using the protocol optimization unit. Here, a parameter space is understood to mean, in particular, a setting option for different measurement parameters, whereby the setting options for the different measurement parameters can vary depending on the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols. The parameter settings can be performed by the operator. The different measurement parameters can include, for example, an echo time (TE) or a relaxation time (TR), etc.This embodiment of the invention allows for advantageous component protection of individual components, particularly the gradient coil unit, of the magnetic resonance device by providing a parameter space suitable for magnetic resonance imaging to adjust the measurement parameters. For example, by adapting the available parameter space to the expected heating of at least one component and / or the total heating of at least one component, a range and / or a setting option for adjusting the relaxation time can be limited.Furthermore, it is also conceivable that a heating state of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit, of the magnetic resonance device before the start of the magnetic resonance examination also has an influence on the available parameter space for this magnetic resonance examination, and that the available parameter space for this magnetic resonance examination is determined on the basis of the already existing heating of the at least one component.

[0016] Furthermore, it can also be provided that the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is determined by the protocol optimization unit based on the available parameter space. This ensures that a parameter space suitable for the magnetic resonance examination can be provided. Preferably, the optimization of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is based both on the expected heating of the at least one component and / or the expected total heating of the at least one component, as well as on the available parameter space. This allows for an advantageous alignment of the expected heating with the available parameter space.

[0017] A further embodiment of the invention provides that the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is determined in relation to at least one further magnetic resonance examination. The two magnetic resonance examinations can be arranged directly one after the other or spaced apart in a sequence plan for the magnetic resonance device. In this way, the utilization of the system, in particular the magnetic resonance device, and / or the expected heating for individual measurements can be advantageously taken into account when planning the sequence of the different magnetic resonance examinations and the sequence of individual measurements within the magnetic resonance examinations. In particular, this allows individual magnetic resonance examinations to be advantageously coordinated with one another.For example, two magnetic resonance examinations, both of which include a knee examination and thus place a heavy load on the gradient coil unit, should preferably not be performed directly one after the other, but rather another magnetic resonance examination should be performed in between.

[0018] A further embodiment of the invention provides that the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is determined as a function of the heating state of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device prior to the start of the at least one magnetic resonance examination. This makes it possible to optimize the sequence of the measurement protocols based on previous magnetic resonance examinations. For example, residual heat resulting from previous magnetic resonance examinations in the at least one component, such as the gradient coil unit, of the magnetic resonance device can be advantageously taken into account when optimizing the sequence.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan can be determined based on the expected temperature rise of at least one component of the MRI scanner after completion of the first MRI scan and / or a subsequent MRI scan. In this way, the optimized sequence can be adapted to the expected temperature rise of the subsequent MRI scan and / or the expected utilization level of at least one component of the MRI scanner for the subsequent MRI scan. This also enables the most evenly distributed expected utilization and / or temperature rise of at least one component of the MRI scanner.Preferably, the expected utilization and / or the expected heating is determined over a measurement period comprising several successive magnetic resonance examinations.

[0020] A further embodiment of the invention provides that, after displaying the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, a sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is selected. Preferably, the selection is made manually by a user at a user interface of the magnetic resonance device. This allows the user to select the sequence of two or more measurement protocols based on different sequences of the two or more measurement protocols, wherein the different sequences of the two or more measurement protocols also include the optimized sequence.In particular, the user can select the order of the two or more measurement parameters based on further parameters and / or information, for example, if a particularly time-optimized magnetic resonance examination is desired, which is especially advantageous for claustrophobic patients.

[0021] Particularly advantageous for the manual selection of the sequence of two or more measurement protocols from two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination is the determination of at least one optimization piece of information by the protocol optimization unit. Using this optimization piece of information, the individual sequences of the two or more measurement protocols from two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination can be advantageously evaluated, particularly with regard to optimal utilization and / or optimal parameter settings. The optimization piece of information particularly advantageously includes a utilization rate of the magnetic resonance device and / or a value indicating a deviation from the optimized sequence.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least one piece of optimization information be displayed differently for the two or more measurement protocols, depending on a value indicating a deviation from the optimized sequence. This allows the optimization information to be displayed directly and easily to the user. In particular, the user can also grasp the optimization information quickly and easily. This also enables a particularly time-saving selection of the sequence for the user. Preferably, a color-coded indicator is used to evaluate the individual sequences. For example, when selecting the sequence that includes the optimized sequence, the optimization information can be displayed to the user by a green illuminated area.If the selected sequence includes an order in which energy-intensive measurements are arranged directly one after the other, this can be indicated and / or displayed to the user by a red illuminated area. It is also possible to use color gradients to represent different optimization information.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention relates to a magnetic resonance device designed to optimize a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, comprising: - a registration unit by means of which patient data of at least one patient is registered, wherein the registration of the patient data involves selecting two or more different measurements, each comprising at least one measurement protocol which includes at least one magnetic resonance examination, - a protocol optimization unit, wherein the protocol optimization unit determines an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination and - a display unit by means of which the selected optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is displayed.

[0024] The invention enables optimal and / or ideal utilization of individual components, in particular the gradient coil unit and the magnetic resonance device, while simultaneously preventing overloading of individual components of the magnetic resonance device, such as the gradient coil unit. Furthermore, it allows for the particularly simple determination and / or definition of an optimized sequence of two or more measurement protocols for magnetic resonance examinations, such as those involving magnetic resonance sequences implemented by the medical personnel themselves. This enables time-saving preparation of the magnetic resonance examination for the medical personnel. In addition, the medical personnel can be advantageously supported in planning the magnetic resonance examination, thus facilitating a time-saving planning process.

[0025] The advantages of the magnetic resonance device according to the invention essentially correspond to the advantages of the method according to the invention for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, which are described in detail below. Features, advantages, or alternative embodiments mentioned here can also be transferred to the other claimed items and vice versa.

[0026] Furthermore, the invention relates to a computer program product comprising a program that can be directly loaded into the memory of a programmable system control unit of a magnetic resonance device. The program provides means for executing a method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination when the program is executed in the system control unit of the magnetic resonance device. The computer program may require additional program elements, such as libraries and auxiliary functions, to implement the corresponding embodiments of the method. The computer program can comprise software with source code that still needs to be compiled and bound or that only needs to be interpreted, or executable software code that only needs to be loaded into a suitable processing unit for execution.

[0027] Furthermore, the invention relates to a computer-readable data carrier which includes a program that is intended for the execution of a method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination.

[0028] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments described below and from the drawings.

[0029] They show: Fig. 1 a magnetic resonance device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 2 a schematic flow chart of a method according to the invention for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination and Fig. 3 A schematic flow chart of the inventive method for several magnetic resonance examinations.

[0030] In Fig. Figure 1 schematically depicts a magnetic resonance device 10. The magnetic resonance device 10 comprises a magnetic unit 11, which includes a superconducting main magnet 12 for generating a strong and, in particular, constant main magnetic field 13. The magnetic resonance device 10 also has a patient receiving area 14 for receiving a patient 15. In the present embodiment, the patient receiving area 14 is cylindrical and is cylindrically surrounded in one circumferential direction by the magnetic unit 11. However, a different configuration of the patient receiving area 14 is conceivable. The patient 15 can be moved into the patient receiving area 14 by means of a patient positioning device 16 of the magnetic resonance device 10. For this purpose, the patient positioning device 16 has a patient table 17 that is movably designed within the patient receiving area 14.

[0031] The magnet unit 11 further comprises a gradient coil unit 18 for generating magnetic field gradients used for spatial encoding during imaging. The gradient coil unit 18 is controlled by a gradient control unit 19 of the magnetic resonance device 10. The magnet unit 11 also includes a high-frequency antenna unit 20 for exciting a polarization that arises in the main magnetic field 13 generated by the main magnet 12. The high-frequency antenna unit 20 is controlled by a high-frequency antenna control unit 21 of the magnetic resonance device 10 and transmits high-frequency magnetic resonance sequences into an examination space, which is essentially formed by a patient acquisition area 14 of the magnetic resonance device 10.

[0032] The magnetic resonance device 10 includes a system control unit 22 for controlling the main magnet 12, the gradient control unit 19, and the high-frequency antenna control unit 21. The system control unit 22 centrally controls the magnetic resonance device 19, for example, by performing a predetermined imaging gradient echo sequence. The system control unit 22 also includes an evaluation unit (not shown) for evaluating medical image data acquired during the magnetic resonance examination.

[0033] Furthermore, the magnetic resonance device 10 includes a user interface 25, which is connected to the system control unit 22. Control information, such as imaging parameters, as well as reconstructed magnetic resonance images, can be displayed on a display unit 24, for example, on at least one monitor, of the user interface 25 for medical personnel. The user interface 25 also includes an input unit 23, by means of which information and / or parameters can be entered by the medical personnel during a measurement procedure.

[0034] In Fig. Figure 2 describes a method according to the invention for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination, wherein the at least one MRI examination is performed using the MRI device 10. For this purpose, the MRI device 10 comprises a recording unit 26 and a protocol optimization unit 27. The protocol optimization unit 27 is arranged together with the recording unit 26 within the system control unit 22. Furthermore, the protocol optimization unit 27 together with the recording unit 26 are designed for an embodiment of the method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one MRI examination, wherein the protocol optimization unit 27 and also the recording unit 26 comprise the necessary software and / or computer programs.The software and / or computer programs are stored in an unspecified memory of the system control unit 22 and are executed by a processor unit of the system control unit 22 to carry out the procedure for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination.

[0035] In a first process step 100, patient data for patient 15 is registered using the registration unit 26 for an upcoming magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. During registration, the patient data of patient 15 is recorded, and based on this data, one or more MRI examinations are selected and / or assigned to patient 15. The MRI examination comprises two or more different measurements, in particular magnetic resonance measurements, each of which includes at least one measurement protocol and which are to be and / or must be performed for the selected and / or assigned MRI examination.

[0036] The acquisition and / or registration of patient data can be performed using stored patient data and / or by means of input, in particular manual input by medical personnel. The registration unit 26 is located within the system control unit 22 and is connected to the user interface 25 and / or a patient database for the acquisition and / or registration of patient data. The patient database can be stored in the memory of the system control unit 22 and / or in external storage. Furthermore, the registration unit 26 includes corresponding software and / or computer programs, which are stored in the memory of the system control unit 22.

[0037] For most magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations, the sequence of individual measurements is not strictly prescribed. Therefore, in this procedure step 100, the user, for example, a physician preparing the MRI scan, can specify and / or select a desired and / or preferred sequence for the two or more individual measurements. By defining a sequence for the two or more individual measurements, a sequence for the two or more measurement protocols for the MRI scan is also determined.

[0038] In a further process step 101, an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination is determined. The optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is determined by means of the protocol optimization unit 27. To optimize the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols, the protocol optimization unit 27 determines the expected heating for at least one component of the magnetic resonance device 10 for at least one of the two or more measurements of the magnetic resonance examination. In the present embodiment, the component of the magnetic resonance device 10 comprises the gradient coil unit 18, so that the expected heating for at least one of the two or more measurements of the magnetic resonance examination is determined for the gradient coil unit 18.In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the expected heating for at least one of the two or more measurements of the magnetic resonance examination can also be determined for a further component or even two or more components of the magnetic resonance device 10 in the further process step 101.

[0039] The expected heating of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 is determined by the protocol optimization unit 27 for, for example, only one measurement or two or more measurements of the different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination. This can be particularly advantageous if the measurement or the two or more measurements for which the expected heating is determined also include the energy-intensive measurements that exhibit a high expected heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device 10. The expected heating is determined based on parameter settings that are defined and / or definable within the individual measurement protocols of the respective measurement of the magnetic resonance examination.

[0040] To optimize the sequence of two or more measurement protocols for two or more different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements, the expected heating is determined for the selected measurement or the two or more selected measurements for all possible sequences of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different MRI measurements. The optimized sequence is determined based on a minimum expected heating of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the MRI device 10 for the one measurement or for the two or more measurements of the two or more different MRI measurements.In this process, the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is selected as the optimized sequence in which the expected heating of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 is minimal.

[0041] Furthermore, in addition to the expected heating, the protocol optimization unit 27 can also determine an available parameter space for the two or more individual measurements of the magnetic resonance examination. This available parameter space comprises a range of settings for parameters within the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination, whereby the parameter settings can be made by the user. The parameter space preferably includes a setting option for different measurement parameters, whereby the setting options for the different measurement parameters can vary depending on the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols. The different measurement parameters can include, for example, an echo time (TE) or a relaxation time (TR), etc.The expected heating and the available parameter space are determined by the protocol optimization unit 27 for all possible sequences of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination.

[0042] The optimization of the sequence of two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination can also be determined depending on the expected heating and the available parameter space. The protocol optimization unit 27 can thereby coordinate the available parameter space and the minimum expected heating of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable that the optimization of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination can also be determined as a function of a minimum expected total heating for at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device. The expected total heating is determined here as a function of parameter settings that are defined and / or definable within the individual measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination. Furthermore, the expected total heating for the at least one component, in particular for the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 can be determined for all of the two or more measurements of the magnetic resonance examination.

[0044] Furthermore, in addition to the expected total heating for the at least one component, in particular for the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10, the protocol optimization unit 227 can also determine the available parameter space for the two or more individual measurements of the magnetic resonance examination. The expected total heating for the at least one component, in particular for the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10, and the available parameter space can preferably be determined by the protocol optimization unit 227 for all possible sequences of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination.

[0045] The optimization of the sequence of two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination can be determined as a function of a minimum expected total heating of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10. Furthermore, the optimization of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination can also be determined as a function of the available parameter space. In this case, the protocol optimization unit 27 can coordinate the available parameter space and the minimum expected total heating of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable that the optimization of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination is determined solely based on a minimum expected heating for at least one of the two or more measurements of the magnetic resonance examination for the at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10. Furthermore, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable that the optimization of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination is determined solely based on an expected minimum overall heating of the at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 for the magnetic resonance examination.

[0047] Furthermore, this additional process step 101 may include the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination, depending on at least one further magnetic resonance examination. Preferably, the further magnetic resonance examination and the magnetic resonance examination with the optimized sequence are arranged sequentially within a sequence plan of the magnetic resonance device 10.

[0048] The protocol optimization unit 27 can be used to determine the optimized sequence of two or more measurement protocols from two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination, depending on the expected heating state of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 before the start of the magnetic resonance examination. The expected heating state of the at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 at the start of the magnetic resonance examination depends on the sequence of the individual measurements and / or the parameter settings of the subsequent magnetic resonance examination, which is performed before the magnetic resonance examination with the optimized sequence.In this way, the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination is advantageously optimized depending on parameters and / or settings of the further magnetic resonance examination, thus providing advantageous protection, in particular against overheating, of individual components of the magnetic resonance device 18.

[0049] Furthermore, in the subsequent process step 101, the protocol optimization unit 27 can determine the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination, depending on the expected heating state of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 after completion of the magnetic resonance examination to be optimized. This allows the protocol optimization unit 27 to take the expected heating state of the at least one component into account for the optimization of a further magnetic resonance examination that follows the magnetic resonance examination to be optimized in a sequence plan.

[0050] Furthermore, in the further process step 101, the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination can be determined using the protocol optimization unit 27, depending on an expected heating state of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18, of the magnetic resonance device 10 of a further magnetic resonance examination, which follows the optimized magnetic resonance examination in a sequence plan.This makes it possible, for example, not only to optimize a single magnetic resonance examination with regard to the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements, but also to optimize the sequence of several magnetic resonance examinations depending on the respective sequences of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements for the respective magnetic resonance examination.

[0051] After determining the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination, a further process step 102 involves displaying the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols using the display unit 24 of the magnetic resonance device 10. In addition to the optimized sequence, the user is also shown the other, non-optimized sequences of the two or more measurement protocols from the two or more different measurements of the magnetic resonance examination. Based on this display, the user can select a sequence. The user can select either the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols or another, non-optimized sequence. The magnetic resonance examination is then performed based on the selected sequence of the two or more measurement protocols.

[0052] To assist in selecting the sequence of two or more measurement protocols, optimization information is determined for each displayed sequence and presented together with the sequence. This optimization information is calculated by the protocol optimization unit 27 within the subsequent process step 101. The optimization information can include a utilization rate of at least one component, in particular the gradient coil unit 18 or the magnetic resonance device 10. Furthermore, the optimization information can also include a value indicating a deviation from the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the selected sequence.

[0053] In the subsequent process step 102, the optimization information for the respective sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is displayed. Depending on a value indicating a deviation from the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols, the optimization information can be displayed differently for each sequence. A color-coded indicator is particularly useful for this purpose, where, for example, a green color signals a small deviation of the selected sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the optimized sequence. Conversely, a red color can signal a large deviation of the selected sequence of the two or more measurement protocols from the optimized sequence.

[0054] In addition to displaying the optimized sequence and other sequences, the user is also shown the available parameter space in each case. This allows the user to select the sequence based on the available parameter space for the individual measurement parameters.

[0055] Following this, in a further process step 103, a selection of a sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is made, whereby the selection is made manually by the user.

[0056] In Fig. Figure 3 illustrates a further step of the method according to the invention, wherein an optimized sequence of two or more measurement protocols is created for several, in particular two or more, magnetic resonance examinations, as is particularly advantageous when planning two or more magnetic resonance examinations using the magnetic resonance device 10 for an entire day. Essentially identical features and functions are generally numbered with the same reference numerals. The following description is essentially limited to the differences from the embodiment in Figure 3. Fig. 2, whereby with regard to unchanged features and functions, reference is made to the description of the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 2 is referred to.

[0057] In this in Fig. In the procedure described in section 3 for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols, the first step of the procedure, step 100, involves registering patient data for at least one patient (17) for a first magnetic resonance examination. Step 100 corresponds to step 100 of the procedure for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for the magnetic resonance examination in [reference missing]. Fig. 2.

[0058] Following process step 100, the registration of patient data for at least one patient (17), a further process step (200) asks whether a sequence of two or more measurement protocols should be optimized for a further magnetic resonance examination and / or whether another patient (17) should be examined. If this question is answered with "yes," process step 100 is restarted, and patient data for another patient (17) is also registered for the further magnetic resonance examination. The question can be answered manually by the user and / or automatically, for example, if a pre-existing workflow exists that already specifies which magnetic resonance examinations are to be performed and / or which patients are to be examined.

[0059] If the question in procedure step 200 is answered with NO, the subsequent procedure step 101 involves determining an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements for the magnetic resonance examinations, as described in Fig. 2 is described. In this process, when optimizing the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements for each of the magnetic resonance examinations, an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the further magnetic resonance examinations is taken into account.

[0060] Subsequently, in a further process step 201, the optimized sequences of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements for the two or more different magnetic resonance examinations are presented and / or displayed. Process step 102, the presentation of the data, is analogous to the presentation step described in the section on... Fig.2, where both an optimized sequence of the two or more measurements of the individual magnetic resonance examinations is displayed, as well as an optimized sequence of the individual magnetic resonance examinations relative to each other. Furthermore, following procedure step 201, the additional procedure step 103 can optionally be executed, in which a user can define and / or select an optimized sequence. Here, the user can define and / or select both the sequence of the individual magnetic resonance examinations and a sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements for the individual magnetic resonance examinations.

[0061] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the preferred embodiment, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples and other variations can be derived by the person skilled in the art without leaving the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

[1] Method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the magnetic resonance examination is performed using a magnetic resonance device (10), comprising the following steps: - Recording patient data of at least one patient (15), wherein the recording of patient data involves selecting two or more different measurements, each comprising at least one measurement protocol that includes at least one magnetic resonance examination, - Determining an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the determination of the optimized sequence is carried out by means of a protocol optimization unit (27), wherein, for determining the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, an expected total heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) for different sequences of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is first determined by the protocol optimization unit (27), wherein the component comprises a gradient coil unit (18) of the magnetic resonance device (10), and - Displaying the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols using a display unit (24) of the magnetic resonance device (10). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that when registering the patient, a sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination can be selected. [3] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is carried out on the basis of a minimum expected total heating of the at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10). [4] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is carried out depending on an expected heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) for at least one of the two or more different measurements. [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that based on the expected heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) and / or the expected total heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10), an available parameter space for the magnetic resonance investigation is determined using the protocol optimization unit (27). [6] Method according to claim 5, characterized by, that the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is determined using the protocol optimization unit (27) based on the available parameter space. [7] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination is carried out depending on at least one further magnetic resonance examination. [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination takes place as a function of a heating state of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) before the start of the at least one magnetic resonance examination. [9] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the determination of the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination is carried out depending on an expected heating state of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) after completion of the at least one magnetic resonance examination and / or of a subsequent magnetic resonance examination. [10] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that after presenting the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of at least one magnetic resonance examination, a sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is selected. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized by , that for a manual selection of the sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, at least one optimization information is determined by the protocol optimization unit (27). [12] Method according to claim 11, characterized by , that at least one optimization information includes a utilization rate of the magnetic resonance device (10) and / or a value of a deviation from the optimized sequence. [13] Method according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized by, that at least one optimization information is displayed, whereby the display is shown differently for the different sequences of the measurement protocols depending on a value for a deviation from the optimized sequence of the measurement protocols. [14] Magnetic resonance device (10) designed to optimize a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination, comprising: - a registration unit (26) by means of which patient data of at least one patient (15) is registered, wherein the registration of the patient data involves selecting two or more different measurements, each comprising at least one measurement protocol which includes at least one magnetic resonance examination, - a protocol optimization unit (27), wherein the protocol optimization unit (27) determines an optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols for the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein, for determining the optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, the protocol optimization unit (27) first determines an expected total heating of at least one component of the magnetic resonance device (10) for different sequences of the two or more measurement protocols of the two or more different measurements of the at least one magnetic resonance examination, wherein the component comprises a gradient coil unit (18) of the magnetic resonance device (10), and - a display unit (24) by means of which the selected optimized sequence of the two or more measurement protocols is displayed. [15] Computer program product comprising a program that can be directly loaded into a memory of a programmable system control unit (22) of a magnetic resonance device (10), comprising program means to execute a method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination according to any one of claims 1 to 13 when the program is executed in the system control unit (22) of the magnetic resonance device (10). [16] Computer-readable data carrier comprising a program that enables the execution of a method for optimizing a sequence of two or more measurement protocols for at least one magnetic resonance examination according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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