Abstract: A focal magnetic resonance imaging system (20) for generating images of neural structures such as nerves. The system (20) includes a control and analysis system (22), a polarizing system (24), and splint-coil assembly (26). The splint-coil assembly (26) includes a splint (28) and various magnetic and electromagnetic coils (32,40,42) incorporated within the splint (28). The splint (28) conforms snugly to a patient's body part, e.g., limb, so that the coils (32,40,42) are fixed with respect to the patient's body part. The splint-coil assembly (26) can be positioned independently of a main field generated by the polarizing system (24), and a stabilization apparatus (156) is included for adjustably securing the position of the splint-coil assembly (26) during imaging. A focal magnet assembly (60) that can serve as the polarizing system (24) is also provided.

Abstract: A neurography system (10) is disclosed for generating diagnostically useful images of neural tissue (i.e., neurograms) employing a modified magnetic resonance imaging system (14). In one embodiment, the neurography system selectively images neural tissue by employing one or more gradients to discriminate diffusion anisotropy in the tissue and further enhances the image by suppressing the contribution of fat to the image. The neurography system is part of a broader medical system (12), which may include an auxiliary data collection system (22), diagnostic system (24), therapeutic system (26), surgical system (28), and training system (30). These various systems are all constructed to take advantage of the information provided by the neurography system regarding neural networks, which information was heretofore unavailable.