Multiple channel phased arrays for echo planar imaging

MAGMA. 2000 Dec;11(3):138-43. doi: 10.1007/BF02678477.

Abstract

A new interface combining phased arrays and echo-planar imaging (EPI) technologies was developed for two channel breast MR EPI applications. A detailed design for a dual-channel, EPI-compatible, phased array breast coil is described. EPI digital data multiplexing, signal controlling and sampling schemes are also presented. Results from breast phantoms and patients demonstrate a 55% improvement in signal-to-noise ratio when compared to a conventional two-loop, single channel coil configuration. This method can be easily expanded to a four or more channel, EPI-compatible, phased array system to improve field-of-view coverage and signal-to-noise ratio.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Echo-Planar Imaging / instrumentation*
  • Echo-Planar Imaging / methods
  • Equipment Design
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted