High Performance, Highly Deployable Head-Only MRI Scanner

描述（由申请人提供）：申请项目的动机是认识到目前的多用途全身MRI扫描仪限制了最佳的神经成像。目前的扫描仪是基于一刀切的全身成像概念，不具备仅用于脑部成像的扫描仪所能实现的全部功能。GE全球研究中心和梅奥诊所提议联合开发并验证一种全新的神经成像MR系统。该系统基于革命性的轻量级磁铁、梯度和射频设计，可以对人脑进行高质量的3T MRI。这种新型扫描仪将为患者提供更大的舒适度，显著改善图像质量，并在速度和成像能力范围（如梯度强度和旋转率）方面提供更高的性能。此外，尺寸和重量的显著减小将允许将扫描仪放置在目前全身MRI扫描仪无法到达的位置。该项目将开发：1)实现无低温磁体和梯度技术，包括先进的低温和磁体设计，仅头部的高性能梯度，集成fMRI模拟功能的射频线圈，以及优化的患者人体工程学。2)高性能3T头部成像系统原型，将在人类志愿者身上进行评估。3)优化图像采集方案和图像分析技术，提高对脑部疾病的评估。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The motivation for the proposed program is the realization that the current multi-use whole-body MRI scanners limit optimal neuroimaging. Current scanners are based on the one-size-fits-all concept of whole-body imaging and do not have the full range of functionalities that could be achieved in a scanner designed to image only the brain. GE Global Research and the Mayo Clinic propose to jointly develop and validate a radically new MR system optimized for neuroimaging. This system is based on a revolutionary lightweight magnet, gradient and RF design to permit high quality 3T MRI of the human brain. This new scanner will provide much greater patient comfort, markedly improved image quality, and much higher performance in terms of speed and range of imaging capabilities such as gradient strength and slew rate. In addition, the significant reduction in size and weight will allow the placement of the scanner in locations that are currently inaccessible to whole-body MRI scanners. This program will develop: 1) Enabling cryogen-free magnet and gradient technologies include advanced cryogenic and magnet design, head-only high-performance gradients, an RF coil with integrated fMRI simulation capabilities, and optimized patient ergonomics. 2) A high-performance prototype 3T head-only imaging system, that will be evaluated on human volunteers. 3) Optimized image acquisition protocols and image analysis technology to permit improved assessment of brain disorders. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Global Research and the Mayo Clinic propose to develop a new concept MRI brain scanner that is both lightweight and high performance. This scanner represents a 10 times reduction in weight and can be placed in locations that are easily accessible to patients. Successful implementation of this idea will allow greater availability of advanced neuroimaging to meet a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, autism, traumatic brain injury, and stroke.