Multi-Layer Electro-Textile MRI RF Coil Array

 UC Case No. 2017-904

SUMMARY

UCLA Researchers in the Department of Electrical Engineering have developed RF coils for MRI imaging made from ergonomic electro-textile materials.

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a widely-used imaging technique in medical diagnostics and disease staging. Flexible RF coils, a component of MRI scanners, are used to image knees and whole bodies of infants. However, these coils may cause patient discomfort due to their lack of flexibility. In addition, they suffer from low durability during flexion imaging. RF coils using ergonomic electro-textile materials have helped reduce errors due to the large relative motion between the MRI scanner and the patients, but they have a limited coverage area. Thus, there is a need for RF coils with high coverage area, flexibility, and durability during imaging.

INNOVATION

Researchers at UCLA have developed a multi-layer electro-textile RF coil that covers a larger imaging area while maintaining superb imaging quality. Using a multi-layer electro-textile array provides better imaging quality than traditional non-flexible coils. The coil maintains a flexibility similar to clothing while maintaining high durability. Its durability will make the coil practical for clinical use and reduce maintenance costs. Moreover, this array decreases patient discomfort, resulting in reduced scan times and higher throughput of MRI scans.

APPLICATIONS

• MRI Imaging

ADVANTAGES

• Larger imaging area while maintaining superb imaging quality
• Increased patient comfort
• Reduced scan times
• High durability during flexion imaging

RELATED MATERIALS

• D. Zhang and Y. Rahmat-Samii, “Flexible RF Coil Array System Utilizing Electro-textiles for 3T MRI Carotid Artery Imaging,” IEEE Antenna and Propagation Society International Symposium, July 12th, 2017.
• D. Zhang and Y. Rahmat-Samii, “Electro-textiles as Potential Candidate of Flexible MRI RF coil for Stroke Prevention,” Proceedings of the United States National Committee of URSI National Radio Science Meeting (USNC-URSI NRSM), January 4th, 2017, pp. 1-2.
• D. Zhang, and Y. Rahmat-Samii, “An Ergonomic Design for 3Tesla MRI Neck Coil,” Proceedings of the IEEE Antenna and Propagation Society International Symposium, June 28th, 2016, pp. 463-464.