Abstract #1387

Saylor C, Reza S

This presentation demonstrates the use of FEM-based electromagnetic simulations in the design of high frequency volume coils. A prototype 7T coil was observed to undergo a significant change in its current distribution when loaded with a saline phantom. Using FEM simulations permitted us to quickly analyze the modes of the resonant structure, including additional modes caused by stray capacitance, and to determine the effects of sample loading on these modes. This information enabled us to redesign the coil by changing the capacitance distribution, thereby dramatically reducing the effect of sample loading on the current distribution.