A 32-channel combined RF and B0 shim array for 3T brain imaging.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

We add user-controllable direct currents (DC) to the individual elements of a 32-channel radio-frequency (RF) receive array to provide B0 shimming ability while preserving the array's reception sensitivity and parallel imaging performance.

Methods

Shim performance using constrained DC current (± 2.5A) is simulated for brain arrays ranging from 8 to 128 elements. A 32-channel 3-tesla brain array is realized using inductive chokes to bridge the tuning capacitors on each RF loop. The RF and B0 shimming performance is assessed in bench and imaging measurements.

Results

The addition of DC currents to the 32-channel RF array is achieved with minimal disruption of the RF performance and/or negative side effects such as conductor heating or mechanical torques. The shi

SUBMITTER: Stockmann JP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4771493 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature