Background

The TI inversion time, corresponds to the time between two radiofrequency pulses with net magnetization in the opposite direction to the static magnetic field. It is a lapse of time necessary to obtain the MRI signal to detect the relaxation of a tissue under examination, particularly the myocardium.

This TI inversion time is chosen so that the magnetization of the pathology-free myocardium appears black in the final acquired image. It is evident that using the correct TI inversion time maximizes the possibility of detecting the different concentration of the contrast agent and consequently distinguishing portions of tissue with different histocellular compositions, such as portions of pathology-free tissue versus portions of tissue with an acute or chronic pathologic process. The low quality of images acquired at incorrect inversion times may not support a diagnosis or even lead to an inaccurate diagnosis.

To date, such TI inversion time is estimated by the MRI operator, based on personal experience or more often by trial and error. Alternatively, several images can be acquired at different TI inversion times and subsequently evaluate to define the correct TI. All this requires adequately trained personnel and it is costly in terms of time and resources used, and the quality of the images obtained is not guaranteed.

Technology Overview

The solution behind the present invention is to determine an optimal inversion time value from meaningful data of the person to be examined and specific parameters of the performed examination. A machine learning model for an artificial intelligence engine previously trained with values derived from a multiplicity of sample evaluations, is used to derive the optimal TI.

The method requires:

A first step in which meaningful data of the examinee and specific parameters of the exam to be performed by the MRI equipment are collected and provided as input data to the processor;
A second step in which the processor calculates an optimal inversion time and
A third step in which the optimal inversion time is provided to the MRI equipment so as to drive a late image acquisition result of a zone of interest optimized for the subject to be examined and for the examination to be performed.

Benefits

Optimization of time and resources.
Better quality of the captured images and consequently better supported diagnosis.
Fewer exams and shorter times for the patient to undergo examination

Applications

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Late Gadolinium Enhancement Imaging
Viability, diagnosis and arrhythmia risk stratification

Opportunity

Open to collaborative projects to further develop the technology and/or licensing.

Optimal Inversion Time for MR Contrast Images

Patents

IP Status

Seeking