MRI Echo Signal Acquisition Using Variable Flip Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MRI systems require multiple scans and pulse sequences to perform various measurements, such as T1, T2, and MRA, which can be inefficient and cause unnecessary radiation, necessitating a more effective method for collecting and processing MR data.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that acquire a first and second set of echo signals using an MR scanner with different repetition times and flip angles, allowing for simultaneous performance of multiple measurements based on the collected data, including fat-water separation and MRA imaging, using flow modulation modules and multi-dimensional integration algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple MR pulse sequences are applied to perform different measurements, then measurement completeness is improved, but scan time and radiation exposure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple MR pulse sequences into a single integrated acquisition by acquiring data at multiple repetition times and flip angles within one scan. The system collects echo signals from different pulse sequences (e.g., T1-weighted, T2-weighted, PD-weighted) simultaneously by varying acquisition parameters across repetitions, thereby performing multiple measurements in a single scan rather than requiring separate scans for each measurement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal acquisition protocol that can perform multiple types of measurements (T1, T2, PD, MRA) using a single pulse sequence framework. By incorporating flow modulation modules and acquiring data at multiple repetition times and flip angles, the system enables one acquisition to serve multiple measurement purposes, making the pulse sequence multi-functional and eliminating the need for separate dedicated sequences for each measurement type.
2Measurement precision
If multiple MR pulse sequences are applied to perform different measurements, then measurement completeness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acquisition process into multiple repetitions within a single scan, where each repetition uses different parameters (repetition time, flip angle) to contribute to different measurements. The data from these segmented repetitions are then processed separately through specific algorithms (e.g., for T1 mapping, T2 mapping, MRA) to extract the desired measurements, thereby managing complexity through structured segmentation rather than requiring multiple complete pulse sequences.
3Measurement precision
If multiple scans are performed to collect sufficient MR data, then data accuracy is improved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous useful action by acquiring data for multiple measurements continuously within a single uninterrupted scan. Instead of performing separate discrete scans for different measurements, the system continuously collects echo signals at varying parameters throughout one scan, ensuring that the useful data acquisition action continues without interruption and without requiring the subject to undergo multiple separate scanning events, thereby reducing cumulative radiation exposure.
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 enhances acquisition efficiency, reduces the number of scans needed, and enables simultaneous performance of different measurements, thereby minimizing radiation exposure and scan time while improving data accuracy and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)... exploiting a powerful magnetic field and radio frequency (RF) techniques
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided in the present disclosure. The system may acquire a first set of echo signals and a second set of echo signals relating to a subject. The first and the second set may be generated by using an MR scanner to execute a first acquisition and a second acquisition on the subject, respectively. The first acquisition may include at least a first repetition and a second repetition with different repetition times. Each of the first and second repetitions may have a first flip angle. The second acquisition may include at least a third repetition and a fourth repetition with different repetition times. Each of the third repetition and the fourth repetition may have a second flip angle different from the first flip angle. The system may also perform a measurement on the subject based on at least one of the first set or the second set.