A magnetic resonance imaging method uses an inversion recovery sequence with an embedded longitudinal T2‐encoding spin echo module and multiple three‐dimensional gradient recalled echo (GRE) readout blocks. Variants acquire two, three, or four GRE blocks (MPFLAGRE-2/3/4), while L versions shift the T2 module later in the recovery period for optimized contrast. All sequences employ inner product normalization (IPN) or its sign-inverted form (-IPN) to self-correct and combine signal blocks into calculated image data. A synchronized control system executes inversion pulses, spin echo preparation, GRE readouts, and normalization computations to generate T1- and T2-weighted images with cerebrospinal fluid suppression under time- and SAR-efficient conditions at high field strength.
Description
This approach differentiates itself by integrating a T2 preparation spin echo into a multi-block inversion recovery framework, overcoming SAR constraints at ultra-high fields. Self-correcting IPN algorithms enable robust detection of long-T2 components while suppressing CSF, reducing artifacts and improving contrast. Sequence flexibility in the number and timing of readout modules permits simultaneous quantitation of T1 and T2, delivering high-resolution, high-contrast imaging in a single, efficient acquisition. By optimizing temporal placement of readout blocks and leveraging self-normalizing combinations, the method achieves superior image quality and workflow efficiency compared to conventional multi-contrast protocols.
Applications
- Clinical brain imaging
- Brain tumor diagnosis
- Multiple sclerosis monitoring
- Alzheimer's disease detection
- Pharmaceutical imaging trials
Advantages
- Time- and SAR-efficient acquisition of both T1- and T2-weighted images
- Cerebrospinal fluid suppression for improved contrast
- Self-correcting inner product normalization for robust signal combination
- High-resolution imaging capability at high field strengths
- Flexible multi-block sequence variants to optimize timing and contrast
- Quantitative mapping of T1 and T2 relaxation times
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2019241459A1
