MRS434 Magnetic Resonance Imaging (8)

• be able to explain the physical principles of magnetic resonance imaging;
• be able to explain the basic MRI pulse sequences including 2D, 3D and flow motion;
• be able to describe magnetic resonance imaging instrumentation components and scanner design;
• be able to evaluate and compare the capabilities, specifications and descriptions used in characterising magnetic resonance imaging;
• be able to assess and justify a basic quality assurance program for magnetic resonance imaging;
• be able to describe and justify the imaging protocols and alternative techniques used in magnetic resonance imaging;
• be able to compare and contrast imaging protocols including the use of pharmaceuticals and correct technique modifications related to specific pathology;
• be able to identify normal anatomical structures as seen in magnetic resonance imaging images;
• be able to critically assess the safety considerations encountered with magnetic resonance imaging.

- The basic physics of magnetic resonance imaging: the atomic nucleus in magnetic field; radiofrequency pulse; magnetisation vector and its manipulation; production of 90o pulse; emission of NMR signal and free induction decay; transverse relaxation; T2* relaxation; longitudinal relaxation; spin density; measurements of T1,T2 and density weighted images.
- MRI instrumentation: magnetism; magnets, gradient magnetic fields; RF coils; superconducting cooling system; capabilities and specifications of magnetic resonance imaging; RF shielding requirements; relevant regulation standards.
- MRI pulse sequences and image generation: spatial encoding; Fourier transformation; image reconstruction; signal processing; data space; pulse sequence diagrams; conventional spin echo sequence; fast spin echo; gradient echo sequences; multiple slices imaging; 3D imaging; echo planar imaging; tissue suppress techniques; flow phenomena; MR angiography;
- Artefacts in MRI: image processing artefacts; chemical shift artefacts; truncation artefacts; patient related artefacts; RF related artefacts; magnetic susceptibility related artefacts; gradient related artefacts; flow related artefacts.
- Scanning parameters and image quality: scan time parameters and quality; signal to noise ratio; MR contrast parameters; tissue volume coverage; number of excitations; spatial resolutions; quality assurance and quality control programs in magnetic resonance imaging;
- Safety in MRI: static magnetic fields; time varying magnetic fields; RF safety considerations; cryogen consideration; department planning relevant to MRI; ethics, legal issues and professionalism in MRI.
- Examination techniques and protocols used in MRI examinations: contrast media and uses in MRI examinations; normal anatomical and common pathological as may be demonstrated by MRI.