Design and 3D-printing of MRI-compatible cradle for imaging mouse tumors

Deborah L. Donohoe,Rajeev Kumar,Bonnie P. Freudinger,Alexander J. Sherman,Katherine Dennert

doi:10.1186/s41205-021-00124-6

Deborah L. Donohoe, Rajeev Kumar

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-021-00124-6

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Abstract

BackgroundThe ability of 3D printing using plastics and resins that are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible provides opportunities to tailor design features to specific imaging needs. In this study an MRI compatible cradle was designed to fit the need for repeatable serial images of mice within a mouse specific low field MRI.MethodsSeveral designs were reviewed which resulted in an open style stereotaxic cradle to fit within specific bore tolerances and allow maximum flexibility with interchangeable radiofrequency (RF) coils. CAD drawings were generated, cradle was printed and tested with phantom material and animals. Images were analyzed for quality and optimized using the new cradle.Testing with multiple phantoms was done to affirm that material choice did not create unwanted image artifact and to optimize imaging parameters. Once phantom testing was satisfied, mouse imaging began.ResultsThe 3D printed cradle fit instrument tolerances, accommodated multiple coil configurations and physiological monitoring equipment, and allowed for improved image quality and reproducibility while also reducing overall imaging time and animal safety.ConclusionsThe generation of a 3D printed stereotaxic cradle was a low-cost option which functioned well for our laboratory.

Highlights

Since its introduction in the 1980’s, three-dimensional (3D) printing, known as rapid prototyping, has grown to provide solutions to a myriad of design challenges
* Correspondence: deborah.donohoe@aah.org We report creation of a Three dimensional (3D) printed cradle to enable repeated, reliable images in a mouse specific low field Magnetic Resonance Imager
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a relatively safe technique compared to computed tomography (CT) as MRI does not require radiation to produce images [7]

Summary

Introduction

Since its introduction in the 1980’s, three-dimensional (3D) printing, known as rapid prototyping, has grown to provide solutions to a myriad of design challenges. The ability of 3D printing using plastics and resins that are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible provides opportunities to tailor design features to specific imaging needs. In this study an MRI compatible cradle was designed to fit the need for repeatable serial images of mice within a mouse specific low field MRI. MRI is a relatively safe technique compared to CT as MRI does not require radiation to produce images [7]. Animal safety Rodents have a high metabolic rate compared to humans and require monitoring during procedures when anesthesia is used [11]. To ensure animal health during imaging, several variables are monitored including oxygen saturation, heart rate and body temperature. Inhalation anesthesia during MRI for mice is relatively safe; changes in respiration and oxygenation during the imaging protocol may affect image quality. Consideration must be given to the anesthesia delivery mechanism as well as physiologic monitoring equipment used during imaging

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Results

Conclusion