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Real-Time Imaging Platform for MR Monitoring during Focused Ultrasound Treatments

Real-Time Temperature Mapping: With this hybrid method combining SENSE, 2DRF excitation and UNFOLD, a 1/8 FOV is reconstructed resulting in a 8x acceleration. Up to 24 times acceleration has been obtained in other experiments. This acceleration need not be used to increase temporal resolution but can also be used to increase spatial resolution and/or volume coverage. Using multiple functions from the toolbox gives a result that is much better than any single method by itself.

A platform for guiding the delivery of energy and assessing the extent of resulting tissue damage is being designed to support minimally invasive focused ultrasound (FUS) treatment protocols. Requirements for such a platform include the ability to detect temperature changes, preferably in 3D and with a temporal resolution on the order of 1 second. Real-time feedback in the form of temperature maps overlaid on anatomy is essential to ensure that energy is delivered to the correct location and with sufficient intensity to ablate tumor tissue. Thus, the platform includes the capability to rapidly acquire MR images during FUS sonication, transfer acquired data in real-time for reconstruction, process to produce temperature and dose maps, and display maps overlaid on 3D anatomy.

In an initial implementation of this platform, a 2D temperature mapping method is being implemented with a fast gradient-echo sequence combining parallel imaging, UNFOLD, and reduced FOV imaging using 2D RF excitation. Using this method in phantom experiments, FOV reduction from 6 to 24 have been obtained. FOV reduction in the phase-encode direction can be used to, rather than increase temporal resolution for 2D acquisitions, acquire additional slices in the third dimension. In this implementation, functions are being used from the NCIGT toolbox for enhanced IGT applications. 3D Slicer is the tool being used for building display and control modules.

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Involved Investigators

• Lawrence Panych, PhD, NCIGT Core PI
• Nathan McDannold, PhD, NCIGT Core PI