1st Edition
Fundamentals of MRI An Interactive Learning Approach
Fundamentals of MRI: An Interactive Learning Approach explores the physical principles that underpin the technique of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
After covering background mathematics, physics, and digital imaging, the book presents fundamental physical principles, including magnetization and rotating reference frame. It describes how relaxation mechanisms help predict tissue contrast and how an MR signal is localized to a selected slice through the body. The text then focuses on frequency and phase encoding. It also explores the spin-echo sequence, its scan parameters, and additional imaging sequences, such as inversion recovery and gradient echo.
The authors enhance the learning experience with practical materials. Along with questions, exercises, and solutions, they include ten interactive programs on the accompanying downloadable resources. These programs not only allow concepts to be clearly demonstrated and further developed, but also provide an opportunity to engage in the learning process through guided exercises.
By providing a solid, hands-on foundation in the physics of MRI, this textbook helps students gain confidence with core concepts before they move on to further study or practical training.
Introduction
The Fundamentals of MRI
An Interactive Learning Approach
Using the Programs from Windows® Operating Systems
Non-Windows Operating Systems
Structure of the Book
Mathematics, Physics, and Imaging for MRI
Learning Outcomes
Mathematics for MRI
Physics for MRI
Imaging for MRI
Clinical Imaging Terms for MRI
Basic Physical Principles
Learning Outcomes
Spins and the Net Magnetization Vector
The Larmor Equation
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Longitudinal and Transverse Magnetization
Rotating Frame of Reference
Relaxation Mechanisms
Learning Outcomes
T1 and T2 Relaxation
Effect of Magnetic Field Strength on Relaxation Mechanisms
Saturation Recovery Graphs and Tissue Contrast
Contrast Agents
Slice Selection
Learning Outcomes
Gradient Fields
Gradient Fields for Slice Selection
RF Pulse for Slice Selection: Center Frequency and Transmitted Bandwidth
The Slice Selection Program
Acquiring Several Slices
Additional Self-Assessment Questions
Frequency Encoding
Learning Outcomes
Principles of Frequency Encoding
Gradient Fields for Frequency Encoding
The Frequency Encoding Demonstrator
Effect of Gradient Strength and Receiver Bandwidth on Field of View (FOV)
Additional Self-Assessment Questions
Phase Encoding
Learning Outcomes
Principles of Phase Encoding
Gradient Fields for Phase Encoding
The Phase Encoding Demonstrator
The Effect of Gradient Strength and Duration on Phase Shift
Repeated Phase Encoding Steps
The Data Matrix
Additional Self-Assessment Questions
The Spin-Echo Imaging Sequence
Learning Outcomes
The Concept of the Spin-Echo Sequence
Demonstration of the Principles of the Spin-Echo Sequence
TR and TE
Timing Diagram
Additional Self-Assessment Questions
Scan Parameters for the Spin-Echo Imaging Sequence
Learning Outcomes
Image Gray-Scale Characteristics
Image Spatial Characteristics
Image Noise Characteristics
Scan Time
The Spin-Echo Image Simulator
System Performance Assessment
Further Imaging Sequences
Learning Outcomes
Inversion Recovery Sequence
The Inversion Recovery Image Simulator
The Gradient-Echo Sequence
Flow Phenomena
Flow Phenomena Demonstrator: Spin-Echo Imaging Sequence
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
Multiple-Choice Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers to Multiple-Choice Questions
Index
Biography
Elizabeth Berry, Andrew J. Bulpitt
Learning by feedback is essential, especially for a subject such as MRI. This interactive book with CD by Berry and Bulpitt provides an easy-to-follow, step-by-step process to efficiently assimilate and develop understanding of the fundamentals of MRI. It is suitable for students, postgraduates new to the field, and even those with a passing interest in MRI. The online teaching methods and exercises are both intuitive and informative. This will be an invaluable learning tool and resource for those interested in grappling with the complexities of MRI. I would highly recommend this interactive book to those wanting an understanding of MRI.
—Vincent Khoo, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UKAn easy read for those interested in how MRI works but afraid of the heavy mathematics. The basic physics of MRI is clearly explained in layman’s language. Many worked examples help the reader to walk through the fundamental concepts. My favorite part is the exercise questions with answers provided. The multiple-choice questions at the end of the book with answers best prepare the reader to pass an exam on this subject. The best text I have seen for students who are preparing for an exam on MRI physics and for self-study.
—Larry Zeng, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA