MRI Physics. Tech to Tech Explanations

1: Hardware: Magnet Types and Coils.

2: The Basics: Hydrogen, Protons, NMV, FID, Relaxation Contrast, SNR, Free and Bound Protons.

3: Image Weighting: TR, TE, and the “Contrast (Weighting) Triangle”.

4: Introduction to Basic Pulse Sequences: Spin Echo, Gradient Echo and Ernst Angle.

5: Image Weighting: Multi Echo SE Seq., Intro to k-Space M.A.R.S., DRIVE, 3D FSE, and Single Shot FSE.

6: Tissue suppression techniques: IR, ASPIR, SPAIR, SPIR, Fat Sat, Dixon Tech., Water Excitation, Sat. Pulses, Subs.

7: The Gradient Echo Sequence: Image Weighting,

8: Gradient Echo MRA.

9:  k-Space Review: Filling schemes, Contrast MRA

10: EPI: DWI, DTI, SWAN/SWI, Perfusion, ASL, Spectroscopy.

11: Geometric Parameters: Tradeoffs and Effects on I.Q.

12: Artifacts.

13: Gradients: Physical, Logical, Cartesian Coordinate and Spatial Encoding.

14: MR Math: Equations, Pixel/Voxel + Scan time formula.

15: Parallel Imaging.

16: IV Gadolinium.

Technologists must have a solid understanding of the physics behind Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), including safety, the hows and whys of the quantum physics of the MR phenomenon, and how to competently operate MRI scanners. Generating the highest quality images of the human body involves thorough knowledge of scanner hardware, pulse sequences, image contrast, geometric parameters, and tissue suppression techniques. 

MRI Physics: Tech to Tech Explanations is designed to help student MRI technologists and radiotherapists preparing for Advanced MRI certification examinations to better understand difficult concepts and topics in a quick and easy manner. 

Written by a highly experienced technologist, this useful guide provides clear and reader-friendly coverage of what every MR Technologist needs to know. Topics include safety considerations associated with the magnetic field and RF, pulse sequences, artifacts, MRI math, the much-feared gradients, and I.V. contrast. 

• Provides basic guidance on safety considerations, protocols options, critical thinking, and image contrast optimization 
• Simplifies the challenging topic of MRI physics using straightforward language and clear explanations 
• Covers content for American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and Continuing Qualifications Requirements (CQR) exams 
• Features numerous illustrations and photographs of various MRI concepts, pulse sequence design, artifacts, and the application of concepts in clinical settings  

MRI Physics: Tech to Tech Explanations is a must-have resource for the experienced and training MRI technologist, medical students, and radiology residency rotations. 

Stephen J. Powers, BSTR (R), (CT), (MR) is currently an MR Technologist for South Coast Hospital Systems in the USA, and former MRI Clinical Applications Specialist for General Electric Health Care. Stephen has 20 plus years of classroom, lecture and clinical instructor experience.