摘要:
A functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) compatible magnetomechanical vibrotactile device (MVD) uses wire coils having small oscillatory currents to interact with the large static magnetic field inherent to MRI scanners. The resulting Lorentz forces which are exerted on the MVD can be oriented to generate large vibrations that may be easily converted to translational motions as large as several centimetres. Representative data demonstrate the flexibility of MVDs to generate different well-controlled vibratory and tactile stimuli to activate special proprioceptive and cutaneous somatosensory afferent pathways.
摘要:
This invention discloses a method and apparatus to deliver medical devices to targeted locations within human tissues using imaging data. The method enables the target location to be obtained from one imaging system, followed by the use of a second imaging system to verify the final position of the device. In particular, the invention discloses a method based on the initial identification of tissue targets using MR imaging, followed by the use of ultrasound imaging to verify and monitor accurate needle positioning. The invention can be used for acquiring biopsy samples to determine the grade and stage of cancer in various tissues including the brain, breast, abdomen, spine, liver, and kidney. The method is also useful for delivery of markers to a specific site to facilitate surgical removal of diseased tissue, or for the targeted delivery of applicators that destroy diseased tissues in-situ.
摘要:
A method for MR imaging in an inhomogeneous magnetic field substantially without inhomogeneity induced artifacts is disclosed. The method includes acquiring more than one line of K-space per pulse sequence. The K-space data is acquired in partial line segments. The method allows shorter imaging times and higher image quality than conventional imaging methods for inhomogeneous fields.
摘要:
A pulse sequence for a multi-slice T.sub.2 -weighted NMR scan acquires three NMR echo signals from three separate slices in a single TE time interval. The three separate slices are excited by a set of three selective RF excitation pulses followed by a set of three selective RF echo pulses. Three NMR echo signals are subsequently acquired in the presence of three successive readout gradient pulses.
摘要:
An equalization radiography system automatically identifies the lung field in a pre-scan and then carries out an imaging scan in which it equalizes the X-ray exposure but only outside the lung field.
摘要:
This invention discloses a method and apparatus to deliver medical devices to targeted locations within human tissues using imaging data. The method enables the target location to be obtained from one imaging system, followed by the use of a second imaging system to verify the final position of the device. In particular, the invention discloses a method based on the initial identification of tissue targets using MR imaging, followed by the use of ultrasound imaging to verify and monitor accurate needle positioning. The invention can be used for acquiring biopsy samples to determine the grade and stage of cancer in various tissues including the brain, breast, abdomen, spine, liver, and kidney. The method is also useful for delivery of markers to a specific site to facilitate surgical removal of diseased tissue, or for the targeted delivery of applicators that destroy diseased tissues in-situ.
摘要:
Apparatus and method for using radio frequency coil systems for magnetic resonance imaging within an open architecture apparatus is provided. The MRI coil system includes a support structure with an open architecture in which secondary support structures, compression systems and plates containing RF coil systems may be introduced. These structures and RF coils can be moved relative to the patient, or removed entirely from the system. In one embodiment the system consists of a tabletop coil system, while another embodiment consists of a dedicated stretcher design.
摘要:
The quality of x-ray shadowgraphic images is improved by beam equalization controlled to ensure that just the right amount of radiation is used to accomplish the desired result, be it a desired image density and contrast or a desired signal-to-noise ratio or some other desired characteristic. The new techniques include: (1) maintaining a substantially constant signal-to-noise ratio throughout the image by measuring both scattered and primary radiation and using the results in a feedback loop to control the x-ray tube output, (2) raster scanning an x-ray beam along straight lines at constant velocity within a line by using a curved slit rotating aperture, (3) simultaneously controlling each of the intensity and hardness of a scanned x-ray beam as determined by post-patient x-ray measurements, and (4) using a segmented fan to scan the patient in a direction transverse to the plane of the fan and individually modulating each beam segment to achieve desired image characteristics.
摘要:
Apparatus and method for using radio frequency coil systems for magnetic resonance imaging within an open architecture apparatus is provided. The MRI coil system includes a support structure with an open architecture in which secondary support structures, compression systems and plates containing RF coil systems may be introduced. These structures and RF coils can be moved relative to the patient, or removed entirely from the system. In one embodiment the system consists of a tabletop coil system, while another embodiment consists of a dedicated stretcher design.