Fast and precise T1 imaging using a TOMROP sequence.
Proton spin-lattice (T1) relaxation time images were computed from a data set of 32 gradient-echo images acquired with a fast TOMROP (T One by Multiple Read Out Pulses) sequence using a standard whole-body MR imager operating at 64 MHz. The data acquisition and analysis method which permits accurate pixel-by-pixel estimation of T1 relaxation times is described. As an example, the T1 parameter image of a human brain is shown demonstrating an excellent image quality. For white and gray brain matter, the measured longitudinal relaxation processes are adequately described by a single-component least-squares fit, while more than one proton component has to be considered for fatty tissue. A quantitative analysis yielded T1 values of 547 +/- 36 msec and 944 +/- 73 msec for white and gray matter, respectively.
Brix
G
G
Institute of Radiology and Pathophysiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg.
Schad
L R
LR
Deimling
M
M
Lorenz
W J
WJ
D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*