Single-Input Double-Tuned Birdcage Coil with Identical B1 Field Profile for 1H and 19F Imaging

Lingzhi Hu¹, Frank D. Hockett¹, Junjie Chen¹, Gregory M. Lanza¹, Samuel A. Wickline¹

Based on coupled-resonator model, we have designed a single-input double-tuned birdcage working at both 1H and 19F frequencies on 4.7T MRI scanner. The good matching property and homogeneity of B1 field have been testified by S11 and S21 measurement and in vivo demonstration. To achieve the highest sensitivity, we have also integrated an active decoupled surface coil with the double-tuned birdcage and increased the local SNR by over 10 folds. As the standard birdcage structure is preserved, the sensitivity profile of this new double-tuned birdcage is inherently identical at 1H and 19F resonant frequencies.