Automated Acquisition Volume Definition for MRI Signal Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance data acquisition methods require manual segmentation and placement of saturation bands, limiting the automation of the acquisition volume definition, especially in complex anatomical regions like the prostate, leading to inefficiencies and incomplete signal suppression.
Innovation Solution
An automated method for determining the acquisition volume using initial magnetic resonance image data sets, where the examination region is segmented and an envelope is calculated to define the acquisition volume, allowing for the optimization of saturation bands placement and reducing partial volume effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual segmentation and placement of saturation bands is used, then the acquisition volume can be defined, but the process is time-consuming and prone to manual errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated segmentation of the examination region and automatic determination of saturation band positions using image processing algorithms, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention in these tasks
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical segmentation operations are replaced with automated computer-based image processing and algorithmic determination of acquisition parameters
2Reliability
If the acquisition volume is not optimized, then the setup is simpler, but signal suppression from surrounding tissue is incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
Initial magnetic resonance image data sets are acquired and processed before the actual data acquisition to automatically determine the optimal acquisition volume and saturation band positions, preparing the system in advance
Solution Approach 2:
Image processing algorithms and evaluation devices serve as intermediaries between the raw image data and the final acquisition parameter settings, automatically translating images into optimized acquisition configurations
3Reliability
If multiple saturation bands are used to suppress surrounding tissue signals, then signal suppression improves, but the number of components and setup complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic segmentation process divides the examination region into distinct anatomical structures, allowing precise identification of the target volume and automatic determination of the minimum number of saturation bands needed to surround it effectively
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the automatic definition of the acquisition volume, reducing manual errors and improving signal suppression by optimizing the shape and position of the acquisition volume, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of magnetic resonance data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic resonance data set is acquired with a magnetic resonance system
Implementation Method 2
The term 'saturation' is generally understood as meaning that a volume is excited by means of an RF pulse or excitation pulse so that the longitudinal magnetization flips by 90° out of the steady state
Implementation Method 3
A spoiler gradient is subsequently switched (activated) that dephases this magnetization, so it is no longer detectable
Data Source
AI summary
In a computerized method and apparatus to automatically determine an acquisition volume of an examination region for the acquisition of a magnetic resonance data set, at least one magnetic resonance image data set is acquired that at least partially images an examination region, and the magnetic resonance image data set is processed into at least one magnetic resonance image. The examination region is segmented and at least one envelope enclosing a segment is determined. At least one rectangle including the envelope is determined. The acquisition volume is calculated using the rectangle.