Magnetic Resonance Reference Data Acquisition Using Simultaneous Multi-Slice Sequences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging techniques face challenges in efficiently recording reference data for multiple contrasts, particularly when contrasts with long waiting times are involved, leading to prolonged acquisition times and potential crosstalk effects that degrade image quality.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a single-shot TSE sequence, such as a HASTE sequence, to record reference data during waiting times after preparation pulses, allowing for simultaneous acquisition of reference data for multiple slices and contrasts, thereby reducing overall recording time and improving image separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reference data are recorded separately for each slice and contrast before SMS imaging, then the separation algorithm can be properly parameterized, but the total recording time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the recording of reference data for multiple slices into a single simultaneous measurement during SMS imaging. Instead of recording reference data for each slice separately before imaging, the system records reference data for all slices simultaneously during the SMS acquisition process itself, thereby reducing total recording time while maintaining sufficient information for separation algorithm parameterization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous acquisition of reference data during the SMS imaging process. Rather than performing separate reference scans before imaging, the reference data acquisition continues simultaneously with the SMS data collection, maximizing the utilization of available time and eliminating idle periods between reference recording and imaging.
2Productivity
If multi-slice imaging techniques are used to accelerate recording, then productivity increases, but crosstalk effects between slices occur that degrade image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simultaneously acquired reference data as an intermediary to enable proper separation of slice signals. The reference data, recorded during the same SMS imaging process, serve as a mediator that allows the separation algorithm to distinguish between overlapping slice signals, thereby reducing crosstalk effects while maintaining the speed benefits of multi-slice imaging.
3Manufacturing precision
If contrasts with long waiting times after preparation pulses are used, then desired contrast quality is achieved, but the duration of recording increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the acquisition of reference data for multiple slices with the SMS imaging process itself. By recording reference data for all slices simultaneously during the contrast-weighted imaging, the system maintains the required waiting times for contrast quality while avoiding additional sequential reference scans that would extend total recording duration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for recording a magnetic resonance data set in a multi-layer recording area of an object under investigation using a magnetic resonance device (17), wherein an imaging technique is used which utilizes reference data (11, 12, 15, 16) in the reconstruction of magnetic resonance images, wherein at least two sub-data sets with different contrasts are recorded for all layers by recording a first sub-data set without a preparation pulse (1) and a second sub-data set with an inversion pulse, wherein, for recording the reference data (11, 12, 15, 16) for at least one first layer for the first sub-data set, the reference data (12, 15) are recorded in a waiting period (6) after the preparation pulse (1) for at least one other, second layer, from which reference data (11, 16) with respect to the second sub-data set are to be recorded.