Abstract #2799

Characterizing and Correcting Gradient Errors in Non-Cartesian Imaging: Are Gradient Errors Linear Time-Invariant?

Ethan Brodsky^1,2, Walter F. Block^2,3

¹Radiology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA; ²Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; ³Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA

Non-Cartesian sequences are sensitive to gradient delays and eddy currents, imperfections that vary between scanners and over time. Uncorrected trajectory errors lead to misregistration of k-space data and reductions in image quality. We apply a per-scan rapid gradient calibration and correction to multi-echo 3DPR acquisitions. Trajectories for oblique projections are synthesized by linearly combining measurements made on the three orthogonal gradient axes. This rapid calibration depends on the assumption that gradient errors are linear (with respect to gradient amplitude) and time-invariant (within a scan). We show that the assumption of linearity is reasonable, but that gradient errors can change rapidly over time, highlighting the importance of per-scan calibration.