Multi-Echo Pulse Sequence for Simultaneous MRA and MRV Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques require separate scans for arterial and venous vasculature, leading to prolonged scan times, patient discomfort, and data acquisition errors due to movement, which complicates clinical exams and reduces diagnostic efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for simultaneously acquiring both magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) data using a multi-echo pulse sequence within a single scan session, allowing for the generation of MRA and MRV data during different echoes of the same repetition time, and subsequent post-processing to enhance image quality and reduce artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate MRA and MRV scans are performed, then arterial and venous vasculature data can be acquired independently, but scan time is significantly increased and patient discomfort is exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines MRA and MRV data acquisition into a single multi-echo pulse sequence scan. The first echo acquires MRA data while the second echo acquires MRV data, allowing both arterial and venous vasculature to be imaged simultaneously in one scan session rather than requiring separate scans, thereby reducing total scan time while maintaining diagnostic quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a multi-echo pulse sequence with periodic echo acquisitions at different time points within each repetition time. The sequence alternates between acquiring MRA data at one echo time and MRV data at another echo time, enabling time-multiplexed acquisition of both vascular types within a unified scanning framework
2Measurement precision
If separate MRA and MRV scans are performed, then comprehensive vascular assessment is achieved, but patient discomfort and movement errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
By acquiring MRA and MRV data in a single scan session using a multi-echo sequence, the patent eliminates the need for patients to remain stationary across multiple separate scan sessions. This reduces movement-related artifacts and acquisition errors while maintaining the ability to detect both arterial and venous abnormalities comprehensively
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary data acquisition for both MRA and MRV in a single setup phase, establishing proper patient positioning and scanning parameters once at the beginning. This preliminary action prevents the need for repeated positioning and setup that would otherwise occur between separate scans, thereby reducing movement errors
3Adaptability or versatility
If both MRA and MRV scans are performed, then complementary diagnostic information is obtained, but scan time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-echo pulse sequence that serves multiple functions: the first echo is optimized for MRA while the second echo is optimized for MRV. This universal scanning protocol can acquire both arterial and venous vascular data within a single scan, eliminating the need for separate specialized scans and reducing overall protocol complexity despite maintaining comprehensive diagnostic capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the scan protocols for MRA and MRV into a single integrated sequence. By combining the acquisition of both vascular types in one protocol with unified preprocessing and postprocessing steps, the system reduces the complexity that would otherwise arise from managing two separate scan protocols, while still providing complementary diagnostic information
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 significantly reduces scan time, minimizes patient discomfort, and improves data accuracy by allowing for the simultaneous acquisition and precise registration of arterial and venous vasculature data, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and reducing artifacts associated with separate acquisitions.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic resonance (MR) imaging
Implementation Method 2
multi-echo pulse sequence having a repetition time, and a first echo and second echo during the repetition time
Implementation Method 3
susceptibility weighted magnetic resonance imaging of venous vasculature
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices are described for substantially simultaneous acquisition of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) data. Some embodiments provide susceptibility weighted magnetic resonance imaging of vasculature, including generating a multi-echo pulse sequence having a repetition time, and a first echo and a second echo during the repetition time; acquiring MRA data from at least the first echo; and acquiring MRV data from at least the second echo. The MRA data and/or the MRV data may also be post-processed (e.g., filtered, displayed, etc.). Various embodiments provide additional functionality, including techniques for processing data from an unsampled portion of one echo using sampled data from another echo.