Timing is everything: How subtle timing changes in MRI echo planar imaging can significantly alter mechanical vibrations and sound level.

ABSTRACT: Modern MRI relies on the well-established Echo-Planar-Imaging (EPI) method for fast acquisition. EPI is the workhorse of diffusion and functional MRI in neuroscience as well as of many dynamic applications for clinical body imaging. Its speed stems from rapidly switching currents through the 'gradient coils' responsible for spatial encoding. These quick changes, within a strong static magnetic field induce Lorentz forces that generate mechanical vibrations, leading to the loud, characteristic MRI noise. This acoustic noise is already a significant concern in standard clinical scanners, requiring hearing protection and risking image degradation or even hardware strain. In ultra-high-field systems (≥7T), the issue is exacerbated due to stronger Lorentz forces. In this study, we introduce a n

SUBMITTER: Seginer A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12340897 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature