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Zhu X, Wu K, Anderson SW, Zhang X. Wearable Coaxially-Shielded Metamaterial for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2313692. [PMID: 38569592 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Recent advancements in metamaterials have yielded the possibility of a wireless solution to improve signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Unlike traditional closely packed local coil arrays with rigid designs and numerous components, these lightweight, cost-effective metamaterials eliminate the need for radio frequency cabling, baluns, adapters, and interfaces. However, their clinical adoption is limited by their low sensitivity, bulky physical footprint, and limited, specific use cases. Herein, a wearable metamaterial developed using commercially available coaxial cable, designed for a 3.0 T MRI system is introduced. This metamaterial inherits the coaxially-shielded structure of its constituent cable, confining the electric field within and mitigating coupling to its surroundings. This ensures safer clinical adoption, lower signal loss, and resistance to frequency shifts. Weighing only 50 g, the metamaterial maximizes its sensitivity by conforming to the anatomical region of interest. MRI images acquired using this metamaterial with various pulse sequences achieve an SNR comparable or even surpass that of a state-of-the-art 16-channel knee coil. This work introduces a novel paradigm for constructing metamaterials in the MRI environment, paving the way for the development of next-generation wireless MRI technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ke Wu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Stephan W Anderson
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Radiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Motovilova E, Ching T, Vincent J, Tan ET, Taracila V, Robb F, Hashimoto M, Sneag DB, Winkler SA. Design and Dynamic In Vivo Validation of a Multi-Channel Stretchable Liquid Metal Coil Array. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:3325. [PMID: 38998405 PMCID: PMC11243347 DOI: 10.3390/ma17133325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Recent developments in the field of radiofrequency (RF) coils for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offer flexible and patient-friendly solutions. Previously, we demonstrated a proof-of-concept single-element stretchable coil design based on liquid metal and a self-tuning smart geometry. In this work, we numerically analyze and experimentally study a multi-channel stretchable coil array and demonstrate its application in dynamic knee imaging. We also compare our flexible coil array to a commonly used commercial rigid coil array. Our numerical analysis shows that the proposed coil array maintains its resonance frequency (<1% variation) and sensitivity (<6%) at various stretching configurations from 0% to 30%. We experimentally demonstrate that the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the acquired MRI images is improved by up to four times with the stretchable coil array due to its conformal and therefore tight-fitting nature. This stretchable array allows for dynamic knee imaging at different flexion angles, infeasible with traditional, rigid coil arrays. These findings are significant as they address the limitations of current rigid coil technology, offering a solution that enhances patient comfort and image quality, particularly in applications requiring dynamic imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Motovilova
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Terry Ching
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Digital Manufacturing and Design (DManD) Centre, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore
| | | | - Ek Tsoon Tan
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | | | | | - Michinao Hashimoto
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Digital Manufacturing and Design (DManD) Centre, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
| | - Darryl B Sneag
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
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Narongrit FW, Ramesh TV, Rispoli JV. Stretching the Limits of MRI-Stretchable and Modular Coil Array Using Conductive Thread Technology. IEEE ACCESS : PRACTICAL INNOVATIONS, OPEN SOLUTIONS 2024; 12:89613-89620. [PMID: 39026966 PMCID: PMC11257367 DOI: 10.1109/access.2024.3416869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Objective We propose a modular stretchable coil design using conductive threads and commercially available embroidery machines. The coil design increases customizability of coil arrays for individual patients and each body part. Methods Eight rectangular coils were constructed with custom-fabricated stretchable tinsel copper threads incorporated onto textile. Tune, match, and detune circuits were incorporated on the coil. A hook-and-loop mechanism was used to attach and decouple the modular coils. Phantom and in vivo scans at various anatomical flexion angles were acquired to highlight performance, and a temperature test was performed to verify safety. Results In vivo MRI experiments demonstrate high sensitivity and coverage of each anatomy. As the coils are stretched, the sensitive volume increases at a rate of 10.93 mL/cm2. The SNR reduction of a single coil was greater during compression than when stretched, but this did not affect image quality for the array. The modularity of the array allows for adaptability for any anatomy with simple on-demand adjustment to the number and position of coil elements. Conclusion The images demonstrated high sensitivity and coverage of the stretchable array for various anatomies and flexion angles. Stretching the coils increases the sensitive volume, allowing for a larger region to be effectively imaged. The resonance shift and SNR decrease during stretch and compression support further investigation of methods to reduce frequency shift in stretchable coils. Significance The proposed array design allows for highly stretchable, flexible, modular, and conformal patient-centered coils that allow for increased imaging quality, greater comfort, and rapid production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Folk W Narongrit
- Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Thejas Vishnu Ramesh
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Joseph V Rispoli
- Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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Wu K, Zhu X, Anderson SW, Zhang X. Wireless, customizable coaxially shielded coils for magnetic resonance imaging. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadn5195. [PMID: 38865448 PMCID: PMC11168459 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn5195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Anatomy-specific radio frequency receive coil arrays routinely adopted in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for signal acquisition are commonly burdened by their bulky, fixed, and rigid configurations, which may impose patient discomfort, bothersome positioning, and suboptimal sensitivity in certain situations. Herein, leveraging coaxial cables' inherent flexibility and electric field confining property, we present wireless, ultralightweight, coaxially shielded, passive detuning MRI coils achieving a signal-to-noise ratio comparable to or surpassing that of commercially available cutting-edge receive coil arrays with the potential for improved patient comfort, ease of implementation, and substantially reduced costs. The proposed coils demonstrate versatility by functioning both independently in form-fitting configurations, closely adapting to relatively small anatomical sites, and collectively by inductively coupling together as metamaterials, allowing for extension of the field of view of their coverage to encompass larger anatomical regions without compromising coil sensitivity. The wireless, coaxially shielded MRI coils reported herein pave the way toward next-generation MRI coils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Xia Zhu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Stephan W. Anderson
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Vazquez R, Motovilova E, Winkler SA. Stretchable Sensor Materials Applicable to Radiofrequency Coil Design in Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:3390. [PMID: 38894182 PMCID: PMC11174967 DOI: 10.3390/s24113390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Wearable sensors are rapidly gaining influence in the diagnostics, monitoring, and treatment of disease, thereby improving patient outcomes. In this review, we aim to explore how these advances can be applied to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We begin by (i) introducing limitations in current flexible/stretchable RF coils and then move to the broader field of flexible sensor technology to identify translatable technologies. To this goal, we discuss (ii) emerging materials currently used for sensor substrates, (iii) stretchable conductive materials, (iv) pairing and matching of conductors with substrates, and (v) implementation of lumped elements such as capacitors. Applicable (vi) fabrication methods are presented, and the review concludes with a brief commentary on (vii) the implementation of the discussed sensor technologies in MRI coil applications. The main takeaway of our research is that a large body of work has led to exciting new sensor innovations allowing for stretchable wearables, but further exploration of materials and manufacturing techniques remains necessary, especially when applied to MRI diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigoberto Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Simone Angela Winkler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Vliem J, Xiao Y, Wenz D, Xin L, Teeuwise W, Ruytenberg T, Webb A, Zivkovic I. Twisted pair transmission line coil - a flexible, self-decoupled and robust element for 7 T MRI. Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 108:146-160. [PMID: 38364973 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the performance of a twisted pair transmission line coil as a transceive element for 7 T MRI in terms of physical flexibility, robustness to shape deformations, and interelement decoupling. METHODS Each coil element was created by shaping a twisted pair of wires into a circle. One wire was interrupted at the top, while the other was interrupted at the bottom, and connected to the matching circuit. Electromagnetic simulations were conducted to determine the optimal number of twists per length (in terms of B₁+ field efficiency, SAR efficiency, sensitivity to elongation, and interelement decoupling properties) and for investigating the fundamental operational principle of the coil through fields streamline visualisation. A comparison between the twisted pair coil and a conventional loop coil in terms of B₁+ fields, maxSAR₁₀g, and stability of S₁₁ when the coil was deformed was performed. Experimentally measured interelement coupling between individual elements of multichannel arrays was also investigated. RESULTS Increasing the number of twists per length resulted in a more physically robust coil. Poynting vector streamline visualisation showed that the twisted pair coil concentrated most of the energy in the near field. The twisted pair coil exhibited comparable B₁+ fields and improved maxSAR₁₀g to the conventional coil but demonstrated exceptional stability with respect to coil deformation and a strong self-decoupling nature when placed in an array configuration. DISCUSSION The findings highlight the robustness of the twisted pair coil, showcasing its stability under shape variations. This coil holds great potential as a flexible RF coil for various imaging applications using multiple-element arrays, benefiting from its inherent decoupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Vliem
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, the Netherlands
| | - Ying Xiao
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Lausanne, Switzerland; École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Animal Imaging and Technology, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Wenz
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Lausanne, Switzerland; École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Animal Imaging and Technology, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lijing Xin
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Lausanne, Switzerland; École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Animal Imaging and Technology, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Wouter Teeuwise
- C.J. Gorter MRI Centre, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas Ruytenberg
- C.J. Gorter MRI Centre, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Andrew Webb
- C.J. Gorter MRI Centre, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Irena Zivkovic
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, the Netherlands.
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Nohava L, Czerny R, Tik M, Wurzer D, Laistler E, Frass-Kriegl R. Citizen science approach to assessing patient perception of MRI with flexible radiofrequency coils. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2811. [PMID: 38307928 PMCID: PMC10837436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53364-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a major medical imaging modality, which is non-invasive and provides unique soft tissue contrast without ionizing radiation. The successful completion of MRI exams critically depends on patient compliance, and, thus patient comfort. The design, appearance and usability of local MRI radiofrequency (RF) coils potentially influences the patients' perception of the exam. However, systematic investigations and empirical evidence for these aspects are missing. A questionnaire specifically evaluating the impact of RF coils on patient comfort in MRI would be a valuable addition to clinical studies comparing the performance of novel flexible RF coils with standard rigid coils. This paper describes the development of such a questionnaire in the scope of a citizen science (CS) initiative conducted with a group of students at the upper secondary school level. In this work, the CS initiative is presented in the format of a case report and its impact on scientific projects and the students' education is outlined. The resulting questionnaire is made available in German and English so as to be directly applicable by researchers working on the clinical evaluation of novel RF coils or the comfort evaluation of specific hardware setups in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Nohava
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Raphaela Czerny
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Tik
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dagmar Wurzer
- Bundes(real)gymnasium BG/BRG Keimgasse, Mödling, Austria
| | - Elmar Laistler
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roberta Frass-Kriegl
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Obermann M, Nohava L, Frass-Kriegl R, Soanca O, Ginefri JC, Felblinger J, Clauser P, Baltzer PA, Laistler E. Panoramic Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Breast With a Wearable Coil Vest. Invest Radiol 2023; 58:799-810. [PMID: 37227137 PMCID: PMC10581436 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer, the most common malignant cancer in women worldwide, is typically diagnosed by x-ray mammography, which is an unpleasant procedure, has low sensitivity in women with dense breasts, and involves ionizing radiation. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive imaging modality and works without ionizing radiation, but is currently constrained to the prone imaging position due to suboptimal hardware, therefore hampering the clinical workflow. OBJECTIVES The aim of this work is to improve image quality in breast MRI, to simplify the clinical workflow, shorten measurement time, and achieve consistency in breast shape with other procedures such as ultrasound, surgery, and radiation therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS To this end, we propose "panoramic breast MRI"-an approach combining a wearable radiofrequency coil for 3 T breast MRI (the "BraCoil"), acquisition in the supine position, and a panoramic visualization of the images. We demonstrate the potential of panoramic breast MRI in a pilot study on 12 healthy volunteers and 1 patient, and compare it to the state of the art. RESULTS With the BraCoil, we demonstrate up to 3-fold signal-to-noise ratio compared with clinical standard coils and acceleration factors up to 6 × 4. Panoramic visualization of supine breast images reduces the number of slices to be viewed by a factor of 2-4. CONCLUSIONS Panoramic breast MRI allows for high-quality diagnostic imaging and facilitated correlation to other diagnostic and interventional procedures. The developed wearable radiofrequency coil in combination with dedicated image processing has the potential to improve patient comfort while enabling more time-efficient breast MRI compared with clinical coils.
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Abel F, Tan ET, Lunenburg M, van Leeuwen C, van Hooren T, van Uden M, Arteaga C, Vincent J, Robb F, Sneag DB. Flexible array coil for cervical and extraspinal (FACE) MRI at 3.0 Tesla. Phys Med Biol 2023; 68:215011. [PMID: 37816375 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ad0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Objective.High-resolution MRI of the cervical spine (c-spine) and extraspinal neck region requires close-fitting receiver coils to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Conventional, rigid C-spine receiver coils do not adequately contour to the neck to accommodate varying body shapes, resulting in suboptimal SNR. Recent innovations in flexible surface coil array designs may provide three-dimensional (3D) bendability and conformability to optimize SNR, while improving capabilities for higher acceleration factors.Approach.This work describes the design, implementation, and preliminaryin vivotesting of a novel, conformal 23-channel receive-only flexible array for cervical and extraspinal (FACE) MRI at 3-Tesla (T), with use of high-impedance elements to enhance the coil's flexibility. Coil performance was tested by assessing SNR and geometry factors (g-factors) in a phantom compared to a conventional 21-channel head-neck-unit (HNU).In vivoimaging was performed in healthy human volunteers and patients using high-resolution c-spine and neck MRI protocols at 3T, including MR neurography (MRN).Main results.Mean SNR with the FACE was 141%-161% higher at left, right, and posterior off-isocenter positions and 4% higher at the isocenter of the phantom compared to the HNU. Parallel imaging performance was comparable for an acceleration factor (R) = 2 × 2 between the two coils, but improved forR= 3 × 3 with meang-factors ranging from 1.46-2.15 with the FACE compared to 2.36-3.62 obtained with the HNU. Preliminary human volunteer and patient testing confirmed that equivalent or superior image quality could be obtained for evaluation of osseous and soft tissue structures of the cervical region with the FACE.Significance.A conformal and highly flexible cervical array with high-impedance coil elements can potentially enable higher-resolution imaging for cervical imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Abel
- Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, NY 10021, United States of America
| | - Ek T Tan
- Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, NY 10021, United States of America
| | - Martijn Lunenburg
- Tesla Dynamic Coils, Schimminck 12, 5301 Zaltbommel, The Netherlands
| | - Carel van Leeuwen
- Tesla Dynamic Coils, Schimminck 12, 5301 Zaltbommel, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs van Hooren
- Tesla Dynamic Coils, Schimminck 12, 5301 Zaltbommel, The Netherlands
| | - Mark van Uden
- Tesla Dynamic Coils, Schimminck 12, 5301 Zaltbommel, The Netherlands
| | - Catalina Arteaga
- Tesla Dynamic Coils, Schimminck 12, 5301 Zaltbommel, The Netherlands
| | - Jana Vincent
- GE HealthCare, 1515 Danner Dr, 44202 Aurora, OH, United States of America
| | - Fraser Robb
- GE HealthCare, 1515 Danner Dr, 44202 Aurora, OH, United States of America
| | - Darryl B Sneag
- Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, NY 10021, United States of America
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Motovilova E, Ching T, Vincent J, Shin J, Tan ET, Taracila V, Robb F, Hashimoto M, Sneag DB, Winkler SA. Dual-Channel Stretchable, Self-Tuning, Liquid Metal Coils and Their Fabrication Techniques. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:7588. [PMID: 37688046 PMCID: PMC10490642 DOI: 10.3390/s23177588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Flexible and stretchable radiofrequency coils for magnetic resonance imaging represent an emerging and rapidly growing field. The main advantage of such coil designs is their conformal nature, enabling a closer anatomical fit, patient comfort, and freedom of movement. Previously, we demonstrated a proof-of-concept single element stretchable coil design with a self-tuning smart geometry. In this work, we evaluate the feasibility of scaling this coil concept to a multi-element coil array and the associated engineering and manufacturing challenges. To this goal, we study a dual-channel coil array using full-wave simulations, bench testing, in vitro, and in vivo imaging in a 3 T scanner. We use three fabrication techniques to manufacture dual-channel receive coil arrays: (1) single-layer casting, (2) double-layer casting, and (3) direct-ink-writing. All fabricated arrays perform equally well on the bench and produce similar sensitivity maps. The direct-ink-writing method is found to be the most advantageous fabrication technique for fabrication speed, accuracy, repeatability, and total coil array thickness (0.6 mm). Bench tests show excellent frequency stability of 128 ± 0.6 MHz (0% to 30% stretch). Compared to a commercial knee coil array, the stretchable coil array is more conformal to anatomy and provides 50% improved signal-to-noise ratio in the region of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Motovilova
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Terry Ching
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Digital Manufacturing and Design (DManD) Centre, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore
| | | | - James Shin
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ek Tsoon Tan
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | | | | | - Michinao Hashimoto
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Digital Manufacturing and Design (DManD) Centre, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore
| | - Darryl B. Sneag
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
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Nohava L, Obermann M, Frass-Kriegl R, Soanca O, Laistler E. A modular system of flexible receive-only coil arrays for 3 T Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Z Med Phys 2023:S0939-3889(23)00070-3. [PMID: 37258388 DOI: 10.1016/j.zemedi.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Flexible form-fitting radiofrequency coils provide high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and in array configuration large anatomical areas of interest can be covered. We propose a modular system - "ModFlex"- of flexible lightweight 4-channel coaxial coil arrays for 3 T MRI. We investigated the performance difference between commercial reference coils and 8- and 16-channel ModFlex receive-only array systems. In vivo, six anatomical targets in four regions of interest - the neck, the ankle, the spine and the hip - were imaged with the novel coil array system. The versatility of ModFlex and the robustness of the coil characteristics for different use cases is demonstrated. We measured an SNR gain for 4 out of 6 and similar SNR for 2 out of 6 anatomical target regions as compared to commercial reference coils. Parallel imaging capabilities are comparable to standard coils in hip and neck imaging, but ModFlex outperforms standard coils in ankle and spine imaging. High SNR combined with high acceleration possibilities enables faster imaging workflows and/or high-resolution MR acquisitions. The coil's versatility is beneficial for use cases with varying subject sizes and could improve patient comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Nohava
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Michael Obermann
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Roberta Frass-Kriegl
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Onisim Soanca
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Elmar Laistler
- High Field MR Center, Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Vassos C, Robb F, Vasanawala S, Pauly J, Scott G. A Semi-Blind Calibration and Compensation Method for Dynamic Range Recovery of Low-Power Pre-Amplifiers in MRI Receive Chains. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2022; 41:3762-3773. [PMID: 35914030 PMCID: PMC9836831 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2022.3195656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To enable wireless MRI receive arrays, per-channel power consumption must be reduced by a significant factor. To address this, a low-power SiGe alternative to industry standard MRI pre-amplifier blocks has been proposed and its impact on imaging performance evaluated in a benchtop environment. The SiGe amplifier reduces power consumption 28x, but exhibits increased non-linearity and reduced dynamic range relative to industry standard amplifiers. This distorts the images, causing reduced contrast and a blurring of fine features. In conjunction with the amplifier, a semi-blind calibration and compensation framework has been proposed to remove artifacts caused by this non-linearity. Requiring the knowledge of the calibration signal bandwidth, the associated peak transmit powers, and the distorted baseband signals, a second non-linearity is constructed that when cascaded with the receive chain produces a linear response. This method was evaluated for both knee and phantom image datasets of peak input power -20dBm with a -40dBm peak input power image as reference. In the benchtop environment, industry standard amplifiers produced input normalized RMSEs of 0.0199 and 0.0310 for phantom and knee datasets, respectively. The low-power SiGe amplifier resulted in RMSEs of 0.0869 and 0.1130 which were reduced to 0.0158 and 0.0168 following compensation, for phantom and knee images respectively. The ability to effectively compensate for this reduced dynamic range encourages further investigation of low-power SiGe amplifiers for power limited MRI receive arrays.
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Wang B, Siddiq SS, Walczyk J, Bruno M, Khodarahmi I, Brinkmann IM, Rehner R, Lakshmanan K, Fritz J, Brown R. A flexible MRI coil based on a cable conductor and applied to knee imaging. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15010. [PMID: 36056131 PMCID: PMC9440226 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19282-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Flexible radiofrequency coils for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have garnered attention in research and industrial communities because they provide improved accessibility and performance and can accommodate a range of anatomic postures. Most recent flexible coil developments involve customized conductors or substrate materials and/or target applications at 3 T or above. In contrast, we set out to design a flexible coil based on an off-the-shelf conductor that is suitable for operation at 0.55 T (23.55 MHz). Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) degradation can occur in such an environment because the resistance of the coil conductor can be significant with respect to the sample. We found that resonating a commercially available RG-223 coaxial cable shield with a lumped capacitor while the inner conductor remained electrically floating gave rise to a highly effective "cable coil." A 10-cm diameter cable coil was flexible enough to wrap around the knee, an application that can benefit from flexible coils, and had similar conductor loss and SNR as a standard-of-reference rigid copper coil. A two-channel cable coil array also provided good SNR robustness against geometric variability, outperforming a two-channel coaxial coil array by 26 and 16% when the elements were overlapped by 20-40% or gapped by 30-50%, respectively. A 6-channel cable coil array was constructed for 0.55 T knee imaging. Incidental cartilage and bone pathologies were clearly delineated in T1- and T2-weighted turbo spin echo images acquired in 3-4 min with the proposed coil, suggesting that clinical quality knee imaging is feasible in an acceptable examination timeframe. Correcting for T1, the SNR measured with the cable coil was approximately threefold lower than that measured with a 1.5 T state-of-the-art 18-channel coil, which is expected given the threefold difference in main magnetic field strength. This result suggests that the 0.55 T cable coil conductor loss does not deleteriously impact SNR, which might be anticipated at low field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bili Wang
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
| | - Syed S Siddiq
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
- Medical Physics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jerzy Walczyk
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary Bruno
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
| | - Iman Khodarahmi
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Karthik Lakshmanan
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jan Fritz
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ryan Brown
- Department of Radiology, Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, USA.
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Othman W, Lai ZHA, Abril C, Barajas-Gamboa JS, Corcelles R, Kroh M, Qasaimeh MA. Tactile Sensing for Minimally Invasive Surgery: Conventional Methods and Potential Emerging Tactile Technologies. Front Robot AI 2022; 8:705662. [PMID: 35071332 PMCID: PMC8777132 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2021.705662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As opposed to open surgery procedures, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) utilizes small skin incisions to insert a camera and surgical instruments. MIS has numerous advantages such as reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery time, and reduced learning curve for surgical trainees. MIS comprises surgical approaches, including laparoscopic surgery, endoscopic surgery, and robotic-assisted surgery. Despite the advantages that MIS provides to patients and surgeons, it remains limited by the lost sense of touch due to the indirect contact with tissues under operation, especially in robotic-assisted surgery. Surgeons, without haptic feedback, could unintentionally apply excessive forces that may cause tissue damage. Therefore, incorporating tactile sensation into MIS tools has become an interesting research topic. Designing, fabricating, and integrating force sensors onto different locations on the surgical tools are currently under development by several companies and research groups. In this context, electrical force sensing modality, including piezoelectric, resistive, and capacitive sensors, is the most conventionally considered approach to measure the grasping force, manipulation force, torque, and tissue compliance. For instance, piezoelectric sensors exhibit high sensitivity and accuracy, but the drawbacks of thermal sensitivity and the inability to detect static loads constrain their adoption in MIS tools. Optical-based tactile sensing is another conventional approach that facilitates electrically passive force sensing compatible with magnetic resonance imaging. Estimations of applied loadings are calculated from the induced changes in the intensity, wavelength, or phase of light transmitted through optical fibers. Nonetheless, new emerging technologies are also evoking a high potential of contributions to the field of smart surgical tools. The recent development of flexible, highly sensitive tactile microfluidic-based sensors has become an emerging field in tactile sensing, which contributed to wearable electronics and smart-skin applications. Another emerging technology is imaging-based tactile sensing that achieved superior multi-axial force measurements by implementing image sensors with high pixel densities and frame rates to track visual changes on a sensing surface. This article aims to review the literature on MIS tactile sensing technologies in terms of working principles, design requirements, and specifications. Moreover, this work highlights and discusses the promising potential of a few emerging technologies towards establishing low-cost, high-performance MIS force sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Othman
- Engineering Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Zhi-Han A. Lai
- Engineering Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Carlos Abril
- Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Juan S. Barajas-Gamboa
- Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ricard Corcelles
- Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Matthew Kroh
- Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad A. Qasaimeh
- Engineering Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, New York, NY, United States
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15
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Zhang B, Wang B, Ho J, Hodono S, Burke C, Lattanzi R, Vester M, Rehner R, Sodickson D, Brown R, Cloos M. Twenty-four-channel high-impedance glove array for hand and wrist MRI at 3T. Magn Reson Med 2021; 87:2566-2575. [PMID: 34971464 PMCID: PMC8847333 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.29147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To present a novel 3T 24-channel glove array that enables hand and wrist imaging in varying postures. METHODS The glove array consists of an inner glove holding the electronics and an outer glove protecting the components. The inner glove consists of four main structures: palm, fingers, wrist, and a flap that rolls over on top. Each structure was constructed out of three layers: a layer of electrostatic discharge flame-resistant fabric, a layer of scuba neoprene, and a layer of mesh fabric. Lightweight and flexible high impedance coil (HIC) elements were inserted into dedicated tubes sewn into the fabric. Coil elements were deliberately shortened to minimize the matching interface. Siemens Tim 4G technology was used to connect all 24 HIC elements to the scanner with only one plug. RESULTS The 24-channel glove array allows large motion of both wrist and hand while maintaining the SNR needed for high-resolution imaging. CONCLUSION In this work, a purpose-built 3T glove array that embeds 24 HIC elements is demonstrated for both hand and wrist imaging. The 24-channel glove array allows a great range of motion of both the wrist and hand while maintaining a high SNR and providing good theoretical acceleration performance, thus enabling hand and wrist imaging at different postures to extract kinematic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Zhang
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.,Advanced Imaging Research Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Bili Wang
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Justin Ho
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shota Hodono
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, Queensland University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Riccardo Lattanzi
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.,Vilcek Institute of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel Sodickson
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ryan Brown
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Martijn Cloos
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research (CAI2R) and Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.,Centre for Advanced Imaging, Queensland University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Motovilova E, Tan ET, Taracila V, Vincent JM, Grafendorfer T, Shin J, Potter HG, Robb FJL, Sneag DB, Winkler SA. Stretchable self-tuning MRI receive coils based on liquid metal technology (LiquiTune). Sci Rep 2021; 11:16228. [PMID: 34376703 PMCID: PMC8355233 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95335-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging systems rely on signal detection via radiofrequency coil arrays which, ideally, need to provide both bendability and form-fitting stretchability to conform to the imaging volume. However, most commercial coils are rigid and of fixed size with a substantial mean offset distance of the coil from the anatomy, which compromises the spatial resolution and diagnostic image quality as well as patient comfort. Here, we propose a soft and stretchable receive coil concept based on liquid metal and ultra-stretchable polymer that conforms closely to a desired anatomy. Moreover, its smart geometry provides a self-tuning mechanism to maintain a stable resonance frequency over a wide range of elongation levels. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations were experimentally confirmed and demonstrated that the proposed coil withstood the unwanted frequency detuning typically observed with other stretchable coils (0.4% for the proposed coil as compared to 4% for a comparable control coil). Moreover, the signal-to-noise ratio of the proposed coil increased by more than 60% as compared to a typical, rigid, commercial coil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Motovilova
- grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065 USA ,grid.239915.50000 0001 2285 8823Department of Radiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - Ek Tsoon Tan
- grid.239915.50000 0001 2285 8823Department of Radiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - Victor Taracila
- grid.418143.b0000 0001 0943 0267GE Healthcare, Aurora, OH USA
| | - Jana M. Vincent
- grid.418143.b0000 0001 0943 0267GE Healthcare, Aurora, OH USA
| | | | - James Shin
- grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Hollis G. Potter
- grid.239915.50000 0001 2285 8823Department of Radiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | | | - Darryl B. Sneag
- grid.239915.50000 0001 2285 8823Department of Radiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - Simone A. Winkler
- grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065 USA
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Nohava L, Czerny R, Roat S, Obermann M, Kuehne A, Frass-Kriegl R, Felblinger J, Ginefri JC, Laistler E. Flexible Multi-Turn Multi-Gap Coaxial RF Coils: Design Concept and Implementation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 3 and 7 Tesla. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2021; 40:1267-1278. [PMID: 33439836 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2021.3051390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance has become a backbone of medical imaging but suffers from inherently low sensitivity. This can be alleviated by improved radio frequency (RF) coils. Multi-turn multi-gap coaxial coils (MTMG-CCs) introduced in this work are flexible, form-fitting RF coils extending the concept of the single-turn single-gap CC by introducing multiple cable turns and/or gaps. It is demonstrated that this enables free choice of the coil diameter, and thus, optimizing it for the application to a certain anatomical site, while operating at the self-resonance frequency. An equivalent circuit for MTMG-CCs is modeled to predict their resonance frequency. Possible configurations regarding size, number of turns and gaps, and cable types for different B 0 field strengths are calculated. Standard copper wire loop coils (SCs) and flexible CCs made from commercial coaxial cable were fabricated as receive-only coils for 3 T and transmit/receive coils at 7 T with diameters between 4 and 15 cm. Electromagnetic simulations are used to investigate the currents on MTMG-CCs, and demonstrate comparable specific absorption rate of 7 T CCs and SCs. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), transmit efficiency, and active detuning performance of CCs were compared in bench tests and MR experiments. For the form-fitted receive-only CCs at 3 T no significant SNR degradation was found as compared to flat SCs on a balloon phantom. Form-fitted transmit/receive CCs at 7 T showed higher transmit efficiency and SNR. MTMG-CCs can be sized to optimize sensitivity, are flexible and lightweight, and could therefore enable the fabrication of wearable coils with improved patient comfort.
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18
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Port A, Luechinger R, Brunner DO, Pruessmann KP. Elastomer coils for wearable MR detection. Magn Reson Med 2021; 85:2882-2891. [PMID: 33433044 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.28662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the use of conductive elastomer for MR signal detection and the utility of this approach for wearable detector arrays. METHODS An elastomer filled with silver microparticles was used to form stretchable radiofrequency coils for MR detection. Their electrical performance in terms of the Qunloaded and Q ratio was assessed in the relaxed state and under repeated strain up to 40%. In a phantom imaging study, the signal-to-noise ratio yield of conductive elastomer coils was compared with that of a reference copper coil. Four elastomer coils were integrated with a stretchable textile substrate to form a wearable array for knee imaging. The array was employed for multiple-angle and kinematic knee imaging in vivo. RESULTS The elastomer coils proved highly stretchable and mechanically robust. Upon repeated stretching by 20%, a medium-sized coil element settled at Qunloaded of 42 in the relaxed state and 32 at full strain, reflecting sample-noise dominance. The signal-to-noise ratio of elastomer coils was found to be 8% to 16% lower than that achieved with a conventional copper coil. Multiple-angle and kinematic knee imaging with the wearable array yielded high-quality results indicating robustness of detection performance against stretching and warping of the array. CONCLUSION Conductive elastomer is a viable material for MR detection. Coils made from this material reconcile high stretchability and adequate electrical performance with ease of manufacturing. Conductive elastomer also offers inherent restoring forces and is readily washable and sanitizable, making it an excellent basis of wearable detector front ends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Port
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roger Luechinger
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David O Brunner
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Klaas P Pruessmann
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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