Alternative hybrid MPI-MRI imaging system design: Superconductive field generator topology

Abstract

It was shown that a hybrid MPI-MRI MFG can be realized as superconductive topology which renders the possibility of acquiring sequentially high resolution MPI and high quality MRI data with versatile soft tissue contrast of mice and rats in a single device. Furthermore, depending on the technically feasible and biologically tolerable drive field strength and/or desired field of view, the superconductive MFG can be realized in a broad range in terms of the SF gradient strength independently to the magnetic field strength of the MRI region. This can be realized by selecting a dedicated gradient enhancing coil current density. As this MFG topology depicts two separated imaging regions for MPI and MRI, respectively, the subject hast to be transported by a simple translational movement whereas the signal detector of each modality can be located closely to the imaging volume which allows in both modalities high sensitivity receiving coils.