A method for optimization of pulse sequences in NMR-imaging.
The diagnostic quality of NMR-images is very much dependent on the pulse sequences and the associated parameters. Therefore, one could use pulse sequences as 'electronic contrast media', if one knew the interrelation between the appearance of pathological alterations in NMR-images and the pulse sequences used. A method is demonstrated which allows a simulation of NMR experiments in the computer, based upon two measurements of one single plane with different recovery times. During this procedure, proton density-, T1- and T2-pictures are calculated and a systematic parameter variation can be done with any programmed pulse sequence equation, by calculating new pictures with different contrast. Even virtual images which cannot be achieved by real NMR experiments can be created. In some cases these virtual images have advantages over real NMR-pictures which are demonstrated. The method may be helpful by answering the questions about optimal parameters and may be one step towards a standardization in NMR-imaging.
D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D003201:Computers; D005910:Glioma / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy