Abstract: Apparatus associated with improved magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided needle biopsy procedures (e.g., breast needle biopsy) are described. One example apparatus includes a support structure configured to support a patient in a face-down prone position where a breast of the patient is positioned in a first free hanging pre-imaging position. The example apparatus includes an immobilization structure configured to reposition the breast into an immobilized position suitable for MRI and for medical instrument access. The immobilization structure may include a biopsy plate, a pressure plate, and MRI coils. The MRI coils are configured to be repositioned from a first position associated with the free hanging pre-imaging position to a second position associated with the immobilized position to facilitate improving the signal to noise ratio associated with signal received from the breast through the MRI coils. The biopsy plate is removable without removing either of the MRI coils.

Abstract: A docking-station useful for providing a neonate predefined, continuous, stabilized and non-interrupted life-support environmental conditions, comprising of: (i) a neonate incubator, having at least one first opening and a life support system, and (ii) an imaging-device, having a scanning chamber with at least one second opening. The docking-station is configured such that said neonate incubator first opening and said scanning chamber second opening are juxtapose-able so as to reversibly hermetically communicate; thereby providing said neonate predefined, continuous, stabilized, non-interrupted life-support environmental conditions during the entire process of scanning.

Abstract: In MR imaging in a suite of rooms including a diagnostic room and a second surgical room, the magnet includes a diagnostic table separable from a docking station of the magnet and the second room includes a second surgical table. An imaging control computer controls operation of the imaging system and a movement control computer controls operation of the magnet moving system and the patient support table. During imaging in the surgical room, the diagnostic table is separated and docked at a secondary docking station while an emulating computer system cooperate with the imaging control computer system by emulating outputs from the disconnected diagnostic table for controlling operation of the imaging system.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a structure constructed of carbon fiber that is compatible with Magnetic Resonance imaging and other radiofrequency technologies. The structure includes carbon fiber elements as well as insulating elements that are substantially x-ray translucent (radiolucent). These elements are arranged in such a way that the structure can be used in modalities such as Magnetic Resonance imaging where carbon fibers typically cannot be used due to image distortion and localized heating. At the same time, the structures are designed to maintain radiolucency that is significantly homogeneous.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the surface scanning of a patient, arranged on a patient's couch of a medical diagnostic device, with the following steps: Radiation of a light beam from a positioning light source onto the patient, detection of the light beam on the patient by an image sensor, arranged offset relative to the light beam, with the said light beam running from the positioning light source to the patient, movement of the patient relative to the positioning light source so that the light beam passes over the body of the patient, and determination of the surface of the patient from the detected light beam. A corresponding device is also claimed.

Abstract: A system and method for performing magnetic resonance elastography (MRE] of a patient's breasts is provided. An MRE driver configured to be placed on the sternum of the patient is used to impart mechanical energy to the sternum, which in turn generates shear waves in at least one of the patient's breasts. Such a driver is amenable to use with standard breast radio frequency (RF] coils without the need for modification of the existing breast RF coil hardware.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus acquires 3D data of a subject, extracts 2D data for ky=constant out of the 3D data concurrently with the collection of 3D data, Fourier-transforms in a z-axis direction the extracted 2D data for ky=constant and rearranges the same on a kx-z space concurrently with the collecting of 3D data, performs a one-dimensional Fourier transform on z-data completed in a kx direction and acquires a 2D image for real space concurrently with the collection of 3D data, and displays a 2D image on a monitor concurrently with the collection of 3D data. Meanwhile, the the 3D data in the z-axis direction is Fourier-transformed and rearranged on a kx-ky-z space, a two-dimensional Fourier transform is performed on the z-data completed in a kx/ky direction and a 3D image is acquired for real space.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance tomography device has a local coil that is fashioned to receive a magnetic resonance signal. This device has a detector system that is fashioned to detect a position of the local coil on the basis of electromagnetic waves that are affected by the position of the local coil and can be differentiated from the magnetic resonance signal. A method to detect a position of a local coil in a magnetic resonance tomography device Is implemented in this manner as well.

Abstract: An animal holder for use with an imaging device includes a body tube for receiving a first body portion of the animal. The animal holder also includes a head immobilization mechanism disposed adjacent one end of the body tube for receiving a head of the animal. The head immobilization mechanism includes opposing first and second flexible fingers that have free ends configured to contact and immobilize the head of the animal when the fingers are moved to a compressed position.

Abstract: A medical imaging system is provided. The medical imaging system includes a patient positioning table and a patient examination area that is open on at least three sides and accessible from a front side. The patient positioning table is able to be moved into the patient examination area. At least one positioning motor is arranged on a rear side and is separated from the front side by a rear wall element. The at least one positioning motor is operable to adjust the position of a framework. The patient positioning table is disposed on the framework.

Abstract: A method generates a three dimensional (3D) model of a tubular organ having an occluded segment. The occluded segment adjoins a proximal segment at a proximal end thereof, and a distal segment at a distal end thereof. The procedures included injecting a first dye injection into the tubular organ, the first dye approaching a first end of the occluded segment. Multiple first-injection two-dimensional (2D) images of the tubular organ are acquired, each acquired from a different perspective, the first-injection 2D images further acquired with a respective organ timing signal reading. A second dye is injected into the tubular organ, the second dye approaching a second end of the occluded segment. Multiple second-injection 2D images are acquired of the tubular organ, each acquired from a different perspective, the second-injection 2D images further acquired with a respective organ timing signal reading.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for triaging patients according to radiation exposure operates by measuring electron paramagnetic resonance spectra of fingernails, toenails, and/or teeth. A coil structure allows in vivo measurement of tooth enamel or fingernail keratin with reduced coupling to underlying tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for measuring the motion of internal joint structures during and for measuring the function of muscles involved with the motion of a joint of a subject are disclosed. The apparatus can be configured in three forms: a horizontal, vertical, or butterfly motion control device. Each configuration comprises a static member and a moving member, in which the moving member operates to move or be moved by the subject being studied. Also disclosed are processes for using each apparatus to measure of the relative motion of a skeletal structures in a subject, in which the subject is positioned in the apparatus and commanded to move while diagnostic medical images are taken or captured. Additionally, processes for using each apparatus to specifically measure and collect data on the function of the subject's muscles are disclosed.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance image recording unit for recording at least part of a patient during a magnetic resonance examination is presented. The magnetic resonance image recording unit has a first housing wall, a patient receiving area which is at least partially enclosed by the first housing wall, and a motion sensor unit for detecting a movement of the patient. The motion sensor unit has at least one motion sensor element which is arranged in a section of a side of the first housing wall facing away from the patient receiving area.

Abstract: In a small animal imaging system (10) at least one modality (12) and a docking station (36) are provided. The docking station (36) provides a workspace (47) and docking ports (48) for preparation and holding of anesthetized animals that are awaiting imaging. For the duplication of positions, a subject mold (26) is provided that holds the subject in a reproducible position on a subject bed (16). Vital signs monitoring is also provided for subjects awaiting scans. The bed (16) includes fiducials (28) to aid in registration of like modality images and different modality images. A capsule (14) can encapsulate a single bed (16), or for tandem imaging, the capsule can encapsulate multiple-bed configurations, such as two, three, or four beds (16). For better positioning and ease of user access, a positioner (34) positions the capsule (14) from the rear of the modality (12).

Abstract: The invention relates to means for determining the spatial configuration of a biological body (P) on a surface, particularly on the surface of a patient support (150). One embodiment of these means is a sensor system (110) that can be applied to a patient support (150) and that comprises a plurality of sensor units (111), wherein each of these sensor units (111) has an adjacent sensitive zone (112) in which the presence of a biological body (P) induces a detection signal. The sensor unit may particularly comprise a microwave coil (111).

Abstract: A method includes providing a patch including: a flexible base layer that is mountable on and substantially conformable to a patient's body surface, the base layer having opposed upper and lower primary surfaces; a flexible substrate that is releasably attached to the upper primary surface of the base layer and substantially conformable to the patient's body surface; and at least one MRI-visible fiducial element defined by or secured to the flexible substrate. The method further includes: securing the base layer to the body surface to mount the patch on the body surface such that the flexible substrate conforms to the body surface; MRI scanning the patient with the patch on the body surface to generate corresponding image data; identifying a physical location on the body surface using the image data; and removing the flexible substrate from the base layer.

Abstract: A pediatric patient (110), e.g. 0-18 months, is positioned in a patient carrier (100) and prepared for magnetic resonance imaging. The carrier (100) and patient (110) are set on a patient support table (170) of the MRI scanner on which table a local RF coil assembly (180) has been mounted. The carrier (100) is slid along the table (170) into engagement with the RF coil assembly (180). Interacting guide surfaces on the carrier (100) and RF coil assembly (180) align the carrier (100) with a longitudinal axis of the table (170). The RF coil assembly (180) includes a pivotally mounted anterior coil (290) which is lowered into an imaging or operating position (400). The table with the engaged RF coil assembly (180), carrier (100) and pediatric patient (110) is translated into a magnetic imaging region (330) of the MRI scanner.

Abstract: An MRI-compatible base is configured to support an MRI-compatible head support frame. The base is configured to be secured to a gantry associated with an MRI scanner, and to extend across a width of the gantry. The base allows the head support frame to be moved to any of a plurality of locations across the width of the gantry, and allows the head support frame to rotate about two orthogonal axes so as to be positioned at any of a plurality of angles relative to the gantry.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for using radio frequency coil systems for magnetic resonance imaging within an open architecture apparatus is provided. The MRI coil system includes a support structure with an open architecture in which secondary support structures, compression systems and plates containing RF coil systems may be introduced. These structures and RF coils can be moved relative to the patient, or removed entirely from the system. In one embodiment the system consists of a tabletop coil system, while another embodiment consists of a dedicated stretcher design.

Abstract: In a magnetic resonance device having a PET unit for acquiring positron emission tomography data and a gradient coil, the PET unit includes a carrier tube on which at least one PET detector is arranged. In at least one embodiment, the carrier tube is arranged inside the gradient coil and is displaceably mounted in such a way that access to the PET detector is made possible by its displacement. This allows easy access to the PET detector during maintenance activities.

Abstract: The invention comprises a semi-vertical patient positioning, alignment, and/or control method and apparatus used in conjunction with charged particle or proton beam radiation therapy of cancerous tumors. Patient positioning constraints are used to maintain the patient in a treatment position, including one or more of: a seat support, a back support, a head support, an arm support, a knee support, and a foot support. One or more of the positioning constraints are movable and/or under computer control for rapid positioning and/or immobilization of the patient. The system optionally uses an X-ray beam that lies in substantially the same path as a proton beam path of a particle beam cancer therapy system. The generated image is usable for: fine tuning body alignment relative to the proton beam path, to control the proton beam path to accurately and precisely target the tumor, and/or in system verification and validation.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus includes a base unit, a reclining couch relative to the base unit, a transfer plate which can be fixed on the reclining couch and a signal transmission unit for data transmission and/or a signal transmission purposes between the transfer plate and the reclining couch. The signal transmission unit includes an inductive coupling unit.

Abstract: A patient support includes an upper support plate which is provided with a headrest. A base plate is arranged below, and separate from the upper support plate, by a floating mounting. A single narrow, narrow support column is provided, in the region of the headrest, between the support plate and the base plate. An upper face of the support plate consists of a forward zone, a mid-zone and an end zone. A width of the support plate reduces continuously from a widest point in the forward zone to a narrow space in the mid-zone and then widens continuously to the end of the support plate. Left and right sections of the patent support are formed and run horizontally arranged symmetrically about a longitudinal and symmetrical axis of the support plate.

Abstract: 2-D projection images show the variation over time of the distribution of a contrast medium in an examination subject. Each projection image comprises pixels having pixel values corresponding to one another in the projection images that are determined by identical areas of the examination subject. A computer subdivides an image that is to be displayed from the projection images into parcels in one perfusion region. For each parcel, the computer determines a characteristic value and, based on the characteristic value, a projection color. It assigns the projection color to the parcel. The characteristic value is determined based on the pixel values occurring in the parcel of the projection image or their differences from the pixel values of a corresponding parcel of another projection image. The computer outputs a subarea of the projection image containing the perfusion region. It represents each parcel of the perfusion region in its assigned projection color.

Abstract: A high frequency coil apparatus for a magnetic resonance apparatus and a magnetic resonance apparatus with a high frequency coil apparatus are provided. The high frequency coil apparatus includes a receiving area for receiving a patient and structural elements. Flexible surface elements extend between the rib elements and enclose the receiving area. A high frequency structure is arranged on a structural element. The flexible surface elements are designed to dampen oscillations and to minimize acoustic radiation.

Abstract: A system for Non-Contrast Agent enhanced MR imaging includes an MR image acquisition device for acquiring imaging datasets comprising one or more image slabs individually comprising multiple image slices. An image data processor processes data representing an acquired image slice to detect a predetermined anatomical feature of a patient by detecting an edge of the anatomical feature in response to detection of pixel luminance transitions. A patient support table controller automatically moves a patient table at a velocity adaptively and dynamically determined by, selecting data modifying table velocity from predetermined information associating an anatomical feature with table velocity modification data in response to detection of the anatomical feature and adaptively determining a table velocity using the modification data.

Abstract: A system for magnetic resonance imaging of anatomy including a head is provided. The system includes a base member, a plurality of support members, and a plurality of articulable reception units. The plurality of support members are movably fixed to the base member and configured to translate across a surface of the base member. Each support member is releasably securable to the base member in a plurality of positions along the surface of the base member. The articulable reception units are movable from an open position to a plurality of closed positions. Each reception unit comprises at least one radio frequency (RF) receive coil disposed within a body, with the body configured for abutment with a portion of a head. Each of the plurality of articulable reception units is releasably secured in the plurality of closed positions by at least one of the plurality of support members.

Abstract: When multiple types of imaging are performed while moving a table on which a subject to be examined is placed, an imaging efficiency is improved and a high-quality image is obtained within a short time. Therefore, within a predetermined time interval such as an identical period of a periodic living body motion, a predetermined number of echo signals from each of the multiple types of imaging sequences are acquired and the table on which the subject to be examined is placed is moved. Along with the movement of the table, data items within the same range in the Ky-direction as to each of the imaging sequences are acquired, the moving speed of the table is controlled in such a manner that the acquired data items become continuous in the x-direction, and images are reconstructed based on the data items obtained respectively from the imaging sequences.

Abstract: In the continuous moving table imaging, high-speed imaging such as the echo planar method is implemented without deteriorating image quality, realizing a high-speed table movement, namely, high-speed imaging. In the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, an imaging control means for controlling a magnetic field generation means, a transfer means, and a signal processing means executes an imaging sequence for applying multiple readout gradient magnetic fields to measure multiple nuclear magnetic resonance signals, after one-time application of an exciting RF pulse, while moving the transfer means. On this occasion, a positional deviation of the readout gradient magnetic fields given to the multiple nuclear magnetic resonance signals, caused by the movement of the transfer means, is calculated in advance as correction data, so that the measured nuclear magnetic resonance signals are corrected by the correction data.

Abstract: A system for inducing tissue vibration for magnetic resonance elastography is described. The system includes a passive actuator component, a first hose, a second hose, and a driving component. The passive actuator component is positionable proximate to a target tissue and includes a linearly movable piston assembly enclosed in a housing. The driving component includes a fluid pumping system and is configured to alternatingly pump a fluid through the first hose and through the second hose. When fluid is pumped through the first hose, the piston assembly moves in a first linear direction and, when fluid is pumped through the second hose, the piston assembly moves in the opposite direction. The alternating linear movement of the piston assembly induces vibration in the target tissue.

Abstract: A method of operating a magnetic resonance imaging scanner for imaging the heart of a patient comprising inducing apnoea in the patient; sensing an electrical heart waveform; in response thereto moving the chest wall of the patient to a desired location; and triggering the scanner to image.

Abstract: A head fixation assembly includes a head fixation frame, a plurality of upper head fixation members, a plurality of lower head fixation members, and at least one drive mechanism. The head fixation frame includes a pair of upwardly extending spaced-apart arms defining a free space therebetween. At least one upper head fixation member extends from each of the respective arms of the head fixation frame, with each upper head fixation member adjustable relative to the head fixation frame and adapted to engage a patient's head within the free space of the head fixation frame. The lower head fixation members extend from the head fixation frame between the pair of arms, with each member adjustable relative to the head fixation frame and adapted to engage an underside of the patient's head within the free space of the head fixation frame.

Abstract: A method for operating an imaging system, and a system, apparatus, and computer-readable medium, that operate in accordance with the method. The method includes providing field-of-view (FoV) information, and automatically selecting at least one recording sequence based on at least one of a particular diagnostic application of interest and the FoV information.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for examination and use of an electrical field in a magnetic gradient field, containing magnetic particles in an examination area of an object under examination. The invention also relates to a method of determining the, especially three-dimensional, conductivity distribution in an examination area of an object under examination using a device according to the invention, a method for drug or active ingredient release, especially in locally targeted manner, in an examination area of an object under examination likewise using a device according to the invention, as well as use of a device according to the invention for electro-stimulation.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging device and a control thereof, with the magnetic resonance imaging device including a magnet assembly, a patient table provided with a transfer unit introducing a patient to inside of the magnet assembly and a fixing unit supporting the transfer unit, an image output unit which is provided on the magnet assembly or the patient table to output photographic information or general image information of the magnetic resonance imaging device, and a system control unit configured to perform control such that an image of the image output device is output over a facial area of a patient positioned in the magnet assembly according to a moving distance of the transfer unit and thus the patient sees the photographic information or the general image information in the magnet assembly, thereby providing the patient with photographic information.

Abstract: A method of examining breast tissue of a patient's breast using a mammography machine including the steps of manipulating the patient's breast so that at least a portion of the patient's breast is positioned for examination by the mammography machine, the manipulation being facilitated by a skin adhesive agent comprising a quaternary ammonium compound, and examining the breast tissue of the positioned patient's breast using the mammography machine.

Abstract: A body coil for magnetic resonance imaging includes one or more coil elements incorporated in a shell material. The body coil has a rectangular basic shape. Two opposing edge sections of the body coil may be pivoted along one pivot axis, respectively, relative to a middle section. For this purpose, movement elements that effect pivoting are arranged on an edge section side.

Abstract: An equine CT table for positioning a horse during a CT (“computed tomography”) scan. The table is positioned above the patient couch and communicates with the conventional CT system for examination of a horse without requiring mechanical or electrical attachments between the CT system and table. The table includes a frame carrying a tracking system, a linear movement system and a carousel upon which the horse is positioned. Prior to examination, positioning of the horse on the table may be manually adjusted linearly and/or radially in any direction to properly align the horse. Infinitely positionable cantilever members are provided to support horse's appendages. The tracking system identifies movement of the CT couch and mimics the movement with the linear movement system to enter and retract the horse from the gantry at predetermined positioning.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for calculating a spatially resolved value of an absorption parameter for a positron emission tomography (PET) scan of an examination object via magnetic resonance tomography (MRT). Magnetic resonance data is acquired within a first region lying within a field of view of a magnetic resonance system and within a second region bordering on the first and lying at the edge of the field of view. The method includes the spatially resolved calculation of a first value of the absorption parameter from the first MR data within the first region and of a second value from the second MR data within the second region. A three-dimensional parameter map is obtained from the first value. This parameter map is extended by the second value such that within the first region and the second region the parameter map has the value of the absorption parameter in spatially resolved form.

Abstract: Systems, methods and articles of manufacture are disclosed for capturing motion information in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment. A light sink in the MRI environment may detect light emitted from a plurality of light sources. Each of the plurality of light sources may emit light of a different frequency. Further, each of the plurality of light sources may be located at a different spatial position in the MRI environment. The detected light may be analyzed. A change in spatial position of the light sink may be computed based on the analysis.

Abstract: A head coil for a magnetic resonance tomography device includes a lower part and an upper part that may be positioned above the lower part. The lower part has a lower part base that may be placed on a patient couch for the magnetic resonance tomography device and a lower part resting part that is moveable relative to the lower part base.

Abstract: The magnetic resonance imaging device of the present invention includes a gantry and a bed part comprising a top panel, the gantry comprises a circumferential panel covering outer circumference of a tunnel-shaped static magnetic field space, and a front panel having an opening serving as entrance of a bore for the static magnetic field space, this front panel comprises an arc-shaped outer panel extending from an upper part of the opening serving as entrance of the bore to the ground plane via both sides of the opening, and an inner panel disposed inside the outer panel, a portion connecting the outer panel and the inner panel constitutes a top surface protruding forwardly, and the inner panel is formed in a recessed shape with a concave curved surface extending from the top surface to the opening serving as entrance of the bore.

Abstract: A simple connection of a coil with a magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) is facilitated by a method and an adapter wherein a coil-connection element of at least one local coil is connected with an MRT-connection element of an MRT system. The adapter has a coil-connection element adapter designed to form a connection with at least one coil-connection element of at least one local coil. The adapter also has at least one MRT-connection element adapter designed to form a connection with an MRT-connection element of an MRT system. The adapter can be fixed mechanically to a fixing element of the MRT system.

Abstract: A draping provides at least partial and preferably complete coverage of MRI coils, an MRI table and an MRI support system thereby protecting a patient and the equipment. Draping notch fold down flaps may be pushed into shaped apertures of an MRI apparatus by the patient's breast due to the design of the draping. This offers a barrier between the patient and the equipment pad providing the patient with warmth, comfort and protection from infectious diseases such as Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The draping reduces the clean up and improves the procedure turnaround time for the technologist.

Abstract: A Magnetic Resonance imaging apparatus having a cavity in which a body or a part of a body to be imaged can be housed and a patient support device, which includes a patient supporting surface having a size so as to accommodate at least a part, particularly the whole of the patient body. The patient supporting surface is mounted in a slidable way relative to the cavity for housing the body to be imaged or a part thereof and enters together with the patient into the cavity. The patient support device includes one or more receptacles for respectively housing and/or removably coupling a coil adapted to receive signals from anatomic regions, upon excitation thereof by the Magnetic Resonance imaging apparatus. Each of the one or more receptacles are arranged over the surface of the device in areas corresponding to the position of one or more anatomic regions to be imaged.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a magnet having two poles and a wall connecting the poles; the poles delimiting a patient-imaging space; and a table which is slidably connected to one of the two poles between the two poles and which table extends substantially parallel to the two poles; a drive for displacing the table relative to the magnet; a lock for locking the table in a selected position relative to the magnet; a drive for rotating the magnet about the axis; the table connected to the magnet such that the table rotates with the magnet when the magnet rotates about the axis; the magnet and the table being rotatable from a position in which the poles and the table are horizontal to a position in which the table and the poles are vertical.

Abstract: A system acquires frequency domain components representing MR image data. An RF coil emits RF pulses for use in acquiring multiple individual frequency components corresponding to individual data elements in a 3D storage array in which the individual frequency components are successively acquired along radii from a designated center representing an origin to a boundary of the storage array. Angles of successive radii with respect to the origin are successively changed to substantially fill the storage array volume during acquisition of an MR dataset representing an MR image. A computation processor determines the angles of successive radii with respect to the origin, in response to data representing a reduction in at least one dimension of the 3D imaging volume represented by the storage array. A storage processor stores individual frequency components, acquired using the emitted RF pulses, in corresponding individual data elements in the array.

Abstract: A magnetic induction (MI) repeater includes first and second coils configured to have the same resonance frequency and to be substantially isolated from one another, and an amplifier connected to the first and second coils and configured to receive a signal induced in the first coil by a first magnetic field and output, via the second coil, a second magnetic field based on the signal, wherein the second magnetic field is amplified relative to the first magnetic field.

Abstract: Distortion correction is provided in magnetic resonance imaging. Distortions in one volume are corrected using another volume. The isocenter of the other volume is nearer to an edge of the one volume than the isocenter of the one volume. Using data registration, the other volume is used to correct distortions in the one volume. The other volume may be acquired in little time relative to the acquisition of the one volume by having a smaller field of view, lower resolution, and/or smaller signal-to-noise ratio. The other volume may be a connecting volume for correcting distortions in two volumes to be composed together.