MRI Acoustic Noise Reduction via ASL 3D Radial Pulse Sequences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems generate high acoustic noise due to interactions between the main magnetic field and gradient coil current switching, which can decrease patient comfort and increase anxiety during image acquisition.
Innovation Solution
The method involves applying an arterial spin labeling (ASL) pulse sequence with a three-dimensional radial pulse sequence to generate tag and control images, and subtracting their K-space data to produce inflow images, reducing acoustic noise by minimizing gradient pulse intensity and duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high-speed gradient coil current switching is used to generate high-quality images with fast scan times, then image quality and scan speed are improved, but acoustic noise levels increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the gradient pulse characteristics (amplitude, duration, timing) in the ASL pulse sequence to reduce acoustic noise while maintaining imaging performance. Specifically, the gradient pulses are optimized to minimize vibrations that generate noise during the labeling and control phases of ASL imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes periodic action through the pulsed nature of the ASL sequence, where labeling and control phases are applied periodically to acquire tag and control images. This periodic structure allows for noise reduction by optimizing the timing and duration of gradient pulses within each cycle
2Reliability
If gradient coil current switching is performed to generate MR images, then image acquisition is enabled, but vibrations are generated that create sound waves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters of gradient coil operation by optimizing the amplitude, duration, and timing of gradient pulses used in the ASL sequence. These parameter modifications reduce the mechanical vibrations generated by the gradient coils while preserving the ability to acquire diagnostic images
3Measurement precision
If high magnetic field strength and fast gradient switching are used, then image quality is improved, but patient comfort decreases due to high acoustic noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes to the gradient pulse sequence in the ASL protocol to reduce acoustic noise levels. By optimizing gradient amplitude, duration, and timing parameters, the system maintains high-quality perfusion images while reducing noise to improve patient comfort during the scanning procedure
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 effectively reduces acoustic noise levels during MRI acquisition, enhancing patient comfort and image quality by minimizing vibrations and sound pressure.
Implementation Method 1
MRI uses a main magnet to create a strong, uniform, static magnetic field (i.e., the 'main magnetic field')
Implementation Method 2
the nuclear spins that are associated with hydrogen nuclei in tissue water become polarized. The magnetic moments that are associated with these spins become preferentially aligned along the direction of the main magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
gradient coils to produce smaller amplitude, spatially varying magnetic fields when a current is applied to the gradient coils
Implementation Method 4
an interaction between the main magnetic field and the current switching in the gradient coils may generate vibrations in the gradient coil
Implementation Method 5
applying a labeling phase of an arterial spin labeling (ASL) pulse sequence to a region of interest
Implementation Method 6
The MRI system also includes a processing portion configured to generate an inflow images (i.e. MR angiography or perfusion) using the tag image and the control image
Implementation Method 7
applying a three-dimensional (3D) radial pulse sequence to the region of interest to generate a tag image
Implementation Method 8
applying the 3D radial pulse sequence to the region of interest to generate a control image
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for reducing acoustic noise in a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are provided. One method includes applying a labeling phase of an arterial spin labeling (ASL) pulse sequence to a region of interest, applying a three-dimensional (3D) radial pulse sequence to the region of interest to generate a tag image, applying a control phase of the ASL pulse sequence to the region of interest, and applying the 3D radial pulse sequence to the region of interest to generate a control image.