Spatial localization combining projection presaturation with a two-dimensional excitation pulse.

Abstract

Single-shot spatial localization of short T1 nuclei was achieved by outer volume suppression with projection presaturation followed by selective excitation of the desired volume with a two-dimensional (2D) pulse. After the projection, presaturation with a 2D pulse avoided signal contamination from magnetization regrowth in the outer volume, whereas preceding the 2D pulse with projection presaturation reduced any unwanted excitation in the outer volume caused by the 2D pulse. The improvement in outer volume suppression achieved by combining these two techniques was demonstrated by images collected after the application of projection presaturation alone, a 2D pulse alone, and the two combined.