Abstract #4407

Integration of 2-Channel Parallel Transmission with Forced Current Excitation for Improved B1 Homogeneity in Breast Imaging at 7T

Sergey Cheshkov¹,², Ivan E. Dimitrov¹,³, Wouter Koning⁴, Joseph Rispoli⁵, Mary P. McDougall⁵,⁶, Steve Wright,⁵⁶, Craig R. Malloy¹,²

¹Advanced Imaging Research Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States; ²Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States; ³Philips Medical Systems, Cleaveland, OH, United States; ⁴UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, CX, Netherlands; ⁵Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States; ⁶Electrical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States

Ultra-high field MR offers the promise of higher spatial/temporal resolutions in imaging, and improved sensitivity and quantification in MRS. Capitalizing on these advantages requires resolving the issues of decreased B₁ homogeneity. We report on improved B₁ homogeneity at 7T achieved by combining the flexibility of 2-channel parallel transmission with the insensitivity to loading of Forced Current Excitation breast coil. The overall transmit design is favorable for high quality breast imaging at high static magnetic field. Additionally, because of its insensitivity to coil loading this approach may allow for better patient throughput since breast size and composition vary widely across population.