Steve Patterson1, 2, Erin Mazerolle1, 2, Steven Beyea1, 2, Chris Bowen1, 2
1Institute for Biodiagnostics (Atlantic), National Research Council Canada, Halifax, NS, Canada; 2Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
In this study we demonstrate whole-brain SSFP fMRI at 3T in a rat model from a single run of the functional paradigm (hypercapnia challenge). Banding artifact-free images were generated by combining two images with complementary RF phase cycling increments. These image pairs were collected sequentially in time, by alternating the RF phase cycling increment between images, and using RF catalyzation to minimize signal fluctuations. The sensitivity of this alternating SSFP (altSSFP) technique was compared to conventional pbSSFP in pbSSFP high-signal (pass-band) and low-signal (stop-band) regions. Results show comparable sensitivity in pass-band regions and significantly enhanced sensitivity in stop-band regions.