Fan- or Cone-Beam Geometry for Magnetic Resonance Imaging and X-Ray Imaging

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method and system for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that enables the generation of MRI images with a fan- or cone-beam geometry, similar to the geometry used in X-ray imaging. By sampling only specific portions of k-space in particular shapes (such as triangles or cones) and applying advanced processing, the system instantly creates MR images that match the geometric distortion and projection properties of X-ray images. This compatibility allows direct comparison and real-time overlay of MR and X-ray images, enhancing combined imaging capabilities, particularly for medical interventions.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Medical imaging for interventional procedures such as stroke therapy, where both high-resolution X-ray and soft-tissue-detailed MR images are needed.
• Real-time combined MR and X-ray imaging for guiding catheters or medical instruments during minimally invasive procedures.
• Medical diagnostics where immediate comparison and overlay of MR and X-ray images are necessary (e.g., vascular bifurcations or tumor localization).
• Research and development of hybrid imaging devices that merge MR and X-ray data for comprehensive visualization.
• Industrial non-destructive testing or imaging of technical objects where both MR and X-ray projections are useful and need geometric alignment.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly reduces data acquisition and processing time by sampling only the necessary portions of MRI k-space, enabling near real-time imaging.
• Enables direct overlay and comparison of MR and X-ray images without complicated registration, leading to better diagnostic confidence and procedural safety.
• Allows MR images to be generated from perspectives and geometries matching or differing from X-ray views, giving physicians flexible visualization for challenging cases.
• Reduces computational resources needed compared to traditional full k-space imaging and subsequent geometric transformation.
• Enhances the workflow in interventional environments by speeding up imaging, improving detail, and supporting automatic superposition of MR and X-ray images.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method (1) and a system for magnetic resonance imaging. The method comprises acquiring an MR-data set of an object (19, 20) by sampling only a portion (5) of the k-space of the object (19, 20). This sampled portion (5) can be substantially triangle-shaped or be composed of multiple planes that extend through the point of origin of the k-space and are tangential to a common spherical cap in the k-space. An inverse Fourier transformation is then applied to the MR-data set to transform it from k-space to image space. A final MR-image (25, 29) with a fan- or cone-beam geometry (28) is then computed based on the transformed MR-data set in image space.