Christopher Paul Favazza PhD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Heidi A. Edmonson PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

This presentation aims to provide an introduction to the adverse effect of B1 field (RF) inhomogeneity associated with higher field MRI scanners, substantiating the need for mitigation strategies. Moreover, we aim to provide a thorough and comprehensive report on B1 field mapping techniques, which play an important role in preventing, reducing, or correcting artifacts that arise from B1 inhomogeneity. 

1. Introduction– sources and effects of B1 inhomogeneity. 2. Review of general B1 mapping strategies and descriptions with specific examples. 3. Advantages and limitations of current techniques as applied to pre- and post-image acquisition corrections. 4. Summary and future directions.

Due to a growing prevalence of higher field MRI scanners in clinical settings, B1 field homogeneity is of increasing importance for optimizing image quality. B1 inhomogeneity introduces numerous artifacts, such as image shading or spatially varying contrast that may render 3T images diagnostically inferior to 1.5T images. A review of image degradation due to B1 inhomogeneity will accompany a detailed discussion of B1 field mapping strategies, which constitute a crucial component of techniques to better homogenize the field and/or improve image quality.

Favazza, C, Edmonson, H, B1 Field Inhomogeneity: A Review of Current Field Mapping Techniques.  Radiological Society of North America 2012 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2012 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2012/12034318.html