University of California

Toshiba America Mri, Inc.

Christine Hawryszko

Leon Kaufman

David M Kramer

Mitsuaki A Arakawa

Barry M McCarten

The invention is an MRI imaging system that seamlessly switches between a fast imaging fluoro-mode and a diagnostic imaging mode. The fluoro-mode is used to quickly obtain an image which provides confirmation that the selection of MR imaging parameters are proper and to provide an opportunity to adjust these selections. After the selections have been confirmed and adjusted, the system is switched to a normal diagnostic image mode using the parameter selects as modified during fluoro-mode imaging.

Apparatus and method for transition between fluoro-mode and diagnostic mode magnetic resonance imaging

Continuously updated real-time magnetic resonance imaging processes are used to display an MR image volume to an operator and/or patient co-located with the MRI magnet, viewing console and other elements of an MRI system within the same shielded gantry room. A CRT display may be used for lower field MRI systems while liquid crystal displays may be necessary for higher field MRI systems since the viewing console is to be co-located within the shielded gantry room near the MRI magnet assembly. Suitable RF shielding is provided to RF-isolate the viewing console and its related power and video signal cables from the MRI RF coils being used to monitor relatively weak NMR signals emanating from the image volume within the magnet assembly. When used with open access MRI magnet assemblies, such real-time viewing of the image volume within the gantry room permits performance of simultaneous patient procedures guided by real-time visual feedback to the patient and/or doctor, nurse, patient attendant and the like while located within the gantry room and having direct access to the patient anatomy within the image volume.

Real-time MR imaging inside gantry room

Positioning of interventional devices within the patient image volume of an MRI system is performed while viewing real-time fluoroscopic MR images of such devices superimposed upon a saved prior image ('ghost') of patient anatomy that was earlier located within the same image volume. After such interventional medical procedure is thoroughly planned using the earlier acquired three-dimensional ghost image, the patient anatomy is relocated within the image volume and the final selected trajectory for the interventional device or medical procedure is then performed (preferably while real time MRI fluoroscopy is used to monitor the actual interventional procedure within the real patient anatomy).

Growing community of inventors

San Mateo, CA, United States of America

Christine Hawryszko