MRI Coil Sensitivity Estimation Without Reference Scans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI techniques face challenges in achieving uniform fat suppression across the anatomy due to receive coil non-uniformity, especially at high field strengths, which affects image quality and diagnosis, and often require reference scans that can be inconsistent and reduce image sharpness.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating MRI images using a multichannel receive coil system that estimates cumulative coil sensitivity data to correct for non-uniformities without a reference scan, allowing for improved uniformity and sensitivity through the creation of a 4D data set and optimized acquisition parameters for fat and water spectrum assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If reference scan methods are used for uniformity correction, then image uniformity is improved, but image sharpness deteriorates and additional scan time is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the reference scan step from the uniformity correction process. By using self-service approaches where the MRI data itself is used to calculate coil sensitivity maps without requiring a separate reference scan, the method eliminates the source of blurring while maintaining uniformity correction benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The MRI data automatically serves dual purposes: both diagnostic imaging and uniformity correction. The coil sensitivity maps are calculated from the MRI data itself rather than requiring external reference scans, allowing the system to correct its own non-uniformities without additional scanning
2Stability of the object's composition
If reference scans are performed for uniformity correction, then receive coil non-uniformity is corrected, but scan time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the uniformity correction process with the diagnostic imaging acquisition. By calculating coil sensitivity maps from the same data used for imaging, the method combines two functions into one process, eliminating the need for separate reference scans and reducing total scan time
Solution Approach 2:
The MRI acquisition process self-corrects for receive coil non-uniformity by using the acquired data itself to compute sensitivity maps. This self-service approach eliminates the need for additional reference scanning, thereby reducing scan time while maintaining uniformity correction
3Measurement precision
If multichannel receive coils are used, then signal sensitivity is improved, but receive coil non-uniformity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality correction by calculating coil sensitivity maps specific to each receive coil's spatial characteristics. Each coil's non-uniformity is characterized and corrected locally using its own sensitivity profile, allowing the system to maintain high sensitivity while compensating for individual coil variations
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the MRI signal intensity variations to calculate coil sensitivity maps. By analyzing the received signals and their spatial patterns, the system determines each coil's non-uniformity characteristics and uses this feedback to correct the images, maintaining both sensitivity and uniformity
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 provides consistent through-slice profiles and enhanced image quality by correcting for receive coil non-uniformities, improving fat saturation and overall MRI image uniformity without the need for reference scans, particularly beneficial for high-field MRI systems.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring data from a subject using an MRI system that includes a multichannel receive coil
Implementation Method 2
estimating coil sensitivity data from the 4D data set based on optimally combining data from the plurality of different receive coils
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for generating images with a magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) system, in which the images have been corrected for receive coil nonuniformities are described. Improved data acquisition schemes for fat saturation are also described.