MR imaging of the pelvis with an endorectal-external multicoil array.
Magnetic resonance (MR) images of the pelvis obtained with an endorectal coil have improved resolution relative to that of body coil images; however, they have limited spatial coverage. The sensitivity profile can be improved by using the endorectal coil combined with an external anterior coil as part of a multicoil array. If each coil is connected to a separate receiver, the individual images can be combined to provide an optimal signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). The authors have investigated a 5-inch (12.7-cm) surface coil or a two-coil array as the anterior coil. In both of these configurations, the S/N is improved relative to that of the endorectal coil alone at distances greater than 3 cm from the endorectal coil. The anterior two-coil array provides more lateral coverage. The improved spatial coverage available with this technique expands potential clinical applications of endorectal MR imaging.
Schnall
M D
MD
Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104.
Connick
T
T
Hayes
C E
CE
Lenkinski
R E
RE
Kressel
H Y
HY
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008297:Male; D008961:Models, Structural; D010388:Pelvis / Q000473:pathology*