title: MR gradient response modeling to ensure excitation coherence.
abstract: Gradient system response has a significant effect on the shape and dispersion of complex k-space trajectories, as used in echo-planar magnetic resonance imaging and designed excitation. The authors have developed a method that characterizes the gradient response directly by placing k-space "landmarks" in the raw data. The method produces a clear delineation of the k-space trajectory, while providing information about related factors such as magnetic field homogeneity and temporal coherence of the radio-frequency (RF) and gradient waveforms. By using parameters derived from data collected under varying conditions, gradient response is modeled as a linear system consisting of a response delay function with a frequency-dependent slope. The results allow corrections that can be applied to the RF waveform or to the k-space trajectory. Application of this correction to designed excitation with the sinusoidal k-space trajectory is demonstrated and discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Hospital, Boston, MA 02111.
authors.forename: T G
authors.initials: TG
authors.lastname: Reese
authors.forename: J D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Pearlman
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D017352:Echo-Planar Imaging; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D008280:Magnetics; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D013997:Time Factors