Method for Determining Sensitivity Matrices for Critical Hotspots

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

This invention describes a method for determining sensitivity matrices for specific hotspots in MRI devices. These matrices help optimize control signals for the transmit antennas, ensuring precise imaging while managing safety regions where energy (and potential heating) is highest. The approach involves clustering the scanned object's voxels, assigning them to hotspots, and designing sensitivity matrices that enhance safety and performance during MRI scans.

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

• Designing safer and more efficient MRI scan protocols
• Improving image quality in regions of interest in MRI scans
• Minimizing specific absorption rate (SAR)-related risks in critical body areas during MRI
• Automated calibration and adjustment of transmit antenna elements in MRI systems
• Advanced MRI imaging in patients with elevated safety risks, such as those with implants

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduces risk of tissue heating by precisely controlling radiofrequency energy deposition
• Enhances MRI image quality at critical spots (hotspots)
• Automates and personalizes antenna control, reducing manual calibration and operator errors
• Supports advanced MRI applications with improved safety and reliability
• Applicable to next-generation MRI systems with individualized transmit capabilities

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

Sensitivity matrices are determined for hotspots, the sensitivity matrices being used in the determination of control signal sequences for individually-controllable antenna elements of a radio-frequency transmit system of a magnetic resonance tomography device. For each hotspot, an SAR element may be established by summing the products of the elements of the respective sensitivity matrix with the corresponding elements of a cross-correlation matrix. A computer groups voxels of an object defined by a plurality of voxels into clusters. The computer assigns each cluster to one of the hotspots. For each hotspot, the computer establishes the respective sensitivity matrix such that in relation to each voxel of the cluster assigned to the respective hotspot, the difference between the sensitivity matrix established for the respective hotspot and a sensitivity matrix given for the respective voxel is positive semi-definite.