MRI Apparatus Using Segmented Readout Sequences

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Solution Overview

Problem

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatuses face challenges in selecting appropriate readout sequences and imaging conditions due to the trade-offs between Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and resistance to magnetic field non-uniformity, making it difficult to achieve high-quality images across different anatomical regions and imaging purposes.

Innovation Solution

The MRI apparatus divides the imaging region into temporal or spatial ranges and uses different readout sequences for each range, switching between FE-based and SSFP-based sequences based on the waiting period or imaging conditions to optimize SNR and resistance to magnetic field non-uniformity, allowing for tailored imaging approaches for specific anatomical regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If FE-based readout sequence is used, then SNR per unit acquisition period is improved, but resistance to magnetic field non-uniformity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveSNRVSAvoidresistance to magnetic field non-uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging region is divided into multiple ranges (e.g., first range and second range), and different readout sequences are applied to each range. Specifically, an FE-based sequence is used for one range while an SSFP-based sequence is used for another range, allowing each sequence to be optimized for its specific anatomical region without compromising overall image quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different readout sequences are selectively applied to different anatomical regions based on their specific requirements. The FE-based sequence is used in regions where high SNR is critical, while the SSFP-based sequence is used in regions where resistance to magnetic field non-uniformity is more important, such as areas with susceptibility artifacts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If SSFP-based readout sequence is used, then resistance to magnetic field non-uniformity is improved, but SNR per unit acquisition period deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance to magnetic field non-uniformityVSAvoidSNR

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging region is divided into multiple ranges, and different readout sequences are applied to each range. An SSFP-based sequence is used for one range while an FE-based sequence is used for another range, allowing each sequence to be optimized for its specific anatomical region.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different readout sequences are selectively applied to different anatomical regions based on their specific requirements. The SSFP-based sequence is used in regions where resistance to magnetic field non-uniformity is critical, while the FE-based sequence is used in regions where high SNR is more important.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Measurement precision

If different readout sequences are used for different ranges, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcomplexity of sequence selection and combination

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging region is divided into multiple ranges, and different readout sequences are applied to each range. This segmentation allows for optimized image quality in each region while the system manages the complexity through automated sequence selection based on pre-defined criteria.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 acquisition of high-quality images by using readout sequences suitable for each anatomical region, improving both SNR and spatial resolution while addressing magnetic field non-uniformity issues, thereby enhancing the capability to render blood vessels and perfusion accurately.

Implementation Method 1

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatuses

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic resonance:

Implementation Method 2

Spin Echo (SE) based pulse sequence

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpin echo:

Implementation Method 3

Field Echo (FE) (or Gradient Echo (GRE)) based pulse sequence

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectField echo:

Data Source

PatentUS10663552B2Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that divides imaging region temporally or spatially and acquires data thereof using different readout sequences

Publication Date: 2020.05.26 TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYST CORP

AI summary

A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes a dividing unit, an acquiring unit, and a combining unit. The dividing unit is configured to divide an imaging region of a patient into at least two temporal or spatial ranges. Of the temporal or spatial ranges, the acquiring unit is configured to perform a data acquiring process on a first range by using a first readout sequence and to perform a data acquiring process on a second range by using a second readout sequence that is different from the first readout sequence in terms of one or both of the type of sequence and an imaging condition. The combining unit is configured to combine an image generated from data acquired by using the first readout sequence with an image generated from data acquired by using the second readout sequence.