Leland Stanford Junior University

Zhifei Wen

Norbert Joseph Pelc

Scott Brian Reeder

Rebecca Fahrig

Huanzhou Yu

Marcus Tedrow Alley

Angel R Pineda

A method for generating a magnetic resonance images is provided. A magnetic resonance imaging excitation is applied. A plurality of magnetic resonance image signals is acquired. The plurality of image signals is combined iteratively by using a regularized decomposition algorithm. An image created from combining the plurality of image signals iteratively is displayed.

Regularized species separation

An imaging system and method combines a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system and an x-ray fluoroscopy system such that the two systems have coincident fields of view. X-rays are generated by a stationary anode x-ray tube in which an electron beam is accelerated from a cathode to an anode. In the presence of the static magnetic field of the MRI system, the electron beam is deflected unless it is parallel to the static magnetic field. The x-ray source of the invention contains elements used to steer the electron beam and increase its focusing on the anode. The beam can be steered electrostatically, electromagnetically, or by adding magnetic material to the x-ray source. In the resulting system, MR and x-ray images are acquired without moving the object, which is particularly useful for image-guided medical intervention procedures.

Modified X-ray tube for use in the presence of magnetic fields

An x-ray tube having sensors, magnets, and/or active compensation means operatively coupled thereto or integrated therein for aligning its electron beam with an external magnetic field. Permanent magnets positioned behind the anode and cathode respectively or electromagnets are used to produce a strong, properly aligned internal magnetic field. The x-ray tube is thus less sensitive to other magnetic fields that are not parallel to the anode-cathode axis. The x-ray tube can be mounted in a manner that it can pivot, allowing it to move and align itself. The x-ray tube can also be mounted such that a torque can be sensed. This sensed mechanical force is then used as an input to determine current applied to electromagnetic coils arranged to oppose a transverse magnetic field.

Growing community of inventors

Madison, WI, United States of America

Zhifei Wen