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Phased array detectors and an automated intensity‐correction algorithm for high‐resolution MR imaging of the human brain
Author(s) -
Wald Lawrence L.,
Carvajal Lucas,
Moyher Susan E.,
Nelson Sarah J.,
Grant P. Ellen,
Barkovich A. James,
Vigneron Daniel B.
Publication year - 1995
Publication title -
magnetic resonance in medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.696
H-Index - 225
eISSN - 1522-2594
pISSN - 0740-3194
DOI - 10.1002/mrm.1910340321
Subject(s) - phased array , electromagnetic coil , sensitivity (control systems) , detector , intensity (physics) , optics , resolution (logic) , image resolution , human brain , head (geology) , physics , nuclear magnetic resonance , computer science , artificial intelligence , medicine , electronic engineering , geology , telecommunications , engineering , quantum mechanics , geomorphology , psychiatry , antenna (radio)
Abstract Two‐ and four‐coil phased array detectors were developed to increase the sensitivity and resolution of MR imaging of the human brain cortex, especially for detecting cortical dysplasias in pediatric epilepsy patients. An automated intensity correction algorithm based on an edge‐completed, low‐pass filtered image was used to correct the image intensity for the inhomogenous reception profile of the coils. Seven phased array coils were constructed and tested. The sensitivity of these coils was up to 600% higher at the surface of the cortex than that achieved with a conventional head coil and up to 30% greater at the center of the head. The sensitivity obtained was comparable with that of a conventional small surface coil, but extended over the larger dimensions of the array and previously inaccessible areas such as the top of the head. The advantages of the improved sensitivity are demonstrated with high resolution images of the brain.