Abstract
AbstractMagnetic Resonance (MR) elastography is a method for measuring tissue elasticity via phase images acquired with an MR scanner. The propagation of periodic mechanical waves through the tissue can be captured by means of a modified phase contrast sequence. These waves are generated with a mechanical oscillator (actuator) and coupled into the tissue through the skin. The actuator must be capable of generating a sinusoidal excitation with excellent phase and amplitude stability, while not disturbing the MR imaging process. In this work, an actuator based on a piezoelectric principle was developed. Based on the imaging evaluation of several material samples, the housing for the piezoelectric ceramic was constructed of aluminum. Smaller parts of the housing were manufactured from brass and titanium to fulfill the mechanical constraints. A lever was used to transfer the oscillation generated by the piezoelectric ceramic to the point of excitation. The lever amplifies the piezoelectric motion, allowing for a more compact design. Three different lever designs were characterized by an acceleration sensor both outside and inside the magnet. It was shown that the rigidity of the lever, as determined by its material and form, was decisive in determining the resonant frequency of the system and therefore the maximum practical frequency of operation. It was also shown that the motion of the oscillator is unaffected by the electromagnetic fields of the MR imager. The final design can be placed directly in the magnet bore within a few centimeters of the tissue volume to be imaged without generating significant artifacts. An amplitude range of 0–1 mm in the frequency range from 0 to over 300 Hz was achieved, sufficient for performing most MR elastography applications. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts in Magnetic Resonance (Magn Reson Engineering) 15: 239–254, 2002
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.