In diffusion-weighted imaging with multiple b-values, the acquisition times using a spin-echo EPI sequence can be long because each b-value requires a new shot. The lengthy acquisition time imposes issues with patient compliance and increases venerability to motion-induced errors in quantitative analysis. We herein report a novel pulse sequence that acquires multiple diffusion-weighted images with difference b-values in a single shot by utilizing the combination of a spin echo and a train of stimulated echoes with variable flip angles. This sequence has been demonstrated in a quantitative diffusion phantom and the human brain to realize a 4-fold scan time reduction.
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