MRI Protocol Optimization Using Model-Based Physiological Limit Checks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance tomography systems often exceed physiological limits during measurement sequences, leading to restricted protocol modifications and conservative assumptions that limit the bandwidth of possible measurement protocols, as physiological limits are typically considered late in the protocol preparation and energy input is not accurately known at the time of protocol setting.
Innovation Solution
The method segments the measurement sequence into similar partial modules, identifies the module with the greatest physiological exposure, and uses model functions to test and adjust parameters such as gradient slew rate and Time to Echo, ensuring compliance with physiological limits during protocol preparation, allowing for more flexible and efficient sequencing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physiological limits are considered late in the measurement sequence preparation, then the protocol can be prepared with more flexibility in parameter selection, but the system may exceed physiological limits requiring subsequent protocol modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a preliminary check of physiological limits during protocol preparation using model functions that estimate energy input and physiological exposure. This allows the system to identify potential limit exceedances before finalizing the measurement sequence, enabling proactive adjustment of protocol parameters to ensure compliance while maintaining flexibility in parameter selection.
2Reliability
If conservative assumptions are made about energy input to ensure physiological limit compliance, then patient safety is improved, but the bandwidth of possible measurement protocols is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using model functions that dynamically estimate energy input (SAR) and physiological exposure based on specific protocol parameters. Instead of applying conservative assumptions uniformly, the system calculates actual expected energy input and adjusts protocol parameters accordingly, allowing for optimized measurement protocols that comply with physiological limits while maximizing protocol bandwidth and flexibility.
3Productivity
If the measurement sequence uses high gradient slew rates and rapid RF pulse sequences to reduce measurement time, then productivity is improved, but physiological limits for peripheral nerve stimulation and energy absorption are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using model functions that estimate physiological exposure and energy input during protocol preparation, providing feedback on whether proposed high-speed measurement sequences will exceed physiological limits. This feedback mechanism allows the system to optimize the balance between measurement speed and safety, adjusting gradient slew rates and RF pulse characteristics to achieve maximum productivity while maintaining compliance with physiological limits.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for establishing a protocol relating to a measurement sequence for controlling a magnetic resonance tomography system, the measurement sequence is segmented into various groups of partial modules that are similar to one another. A partial module that potentially generates the greatest physiological exposure for a patient is identified. Furthermore, a test is carried out by means of a model function to determine whether physiological limiting values are being observed in the measurement sequence for the partial module. If the physiological limiting values are not being observed, parameters influencing the measurement sequence are modified and the preceding test step is repeated.