In vivo high resolution NMR imaging with optimized surface gradient coil

Abstract

A three-channel surface gradient coil(SGC) which is optimized for high resolution NMR imaging of a large object with good spatial linearity is presented. The SGC provides strong gradient fields as well as large size of available object with existing gradient drivers which are the fundamental requirements of high resolution human body imaging. Non-linear gradient field of a the SGC is a problem in real application Geometry and current distribution of the SGC are, therefore, optimized to maximize the linearity and strength of the gradient field and minimize inductance and resistance. To compensate SNR loss of high resolution imaging, a surface RF coil is integrated onto the SGC and thereby devices a thin NMR imaging probe. Geometrical structures and characteristics of the proposed three channel surface gradient coil are discussed and some experimental results as well as computer simulation results are presented. By using the assembly, a high resolution($\triangle{r}=200\mu$) and good SNR image of volunteer``s spine was obtained with whole-body KAIS 2.0T MRI system.