Parallel Imaging in Clinical MR Applications

Parallel imaging techniques have only recently been introduced into magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in clinical routine, but they have already gained wide clinical acceptance in numerous applications. Their substantial advantages in terms of higher spatial and temporal resolution and improved image quality have revolutionized the role of MRI in many areas of comprehensive disease imaging.This book presents the first in-depth introduction to parallel imaging techniques and, in particular, to the application of parallel imaging in clinical MRI. It will provide readers with a broader understanding of the fundamental principles of parallel imaging and of the advantages and disadvantages of specific MR protocols in clinical applications in all parts of the body at 1.5 and 3 Tesla.The first part of the book explains relevant MRI physics and techniques, detailing the various image reconstruction algorithms for parallel imaging. The second part presents detailed, ready-to-use clinical protocols for morphologic, angiographic, and functional MR imaging, with special emphasis on problem-solving strategies for assessment of cardiovascular and oncological diseases. In addition, detailed information is provided on cutting-edge techniques such as diffusion tensor imaging, oxygen-enhanced lung imaging, and MRA with blood pool contrast agents.