MR Acquisition Protocols

Generic dynamic protocol

1.5 Tesla
3D spoiled gradient echo
Body XMT
Phased array RCV
Quiet breathing
No parallel imaging
No magnetization preparation
Oblique coronal
Frequency encode S/I
TE as short as possible (1-3 ms)
TR as short as possible (5-7 ms)
Temporal resolution ≤10 sec
SNR/DR trade-off flip angle (30 degree)
±31.25 kHz receiver bandwidth (i.e., 250 Hz/pixel)
Region appropriate FOV (pilot 40 cm for body)
80% FOV for acquisition (may need to adjust arm position to avoid wrap-around)
Partial Fourier as needed
As many slices per acquisition as possible (~12 prior to zero fill)
5-8 mm slice thickness
256 X 160 acquisition matrix (i.e., 1.56 mm × 2.00 mm pixel size)
Zero fill in slice direction (ZIP2)
[For phantom, also zero fill in plane (ZIP512)]
Acquire data for 10 minutes, inject at 1 minute

Generic ratio protocol

These images will be acquired prior to contrast injection
All parameters the same as for dynamic protocol except:
  15 degree flip angle
  8 NEX (averages)
  Repeat second time with body RCV

Generic T1 protocol

These images will be acquired prior to contrast injection
All parameters the same as for dynamic protocol except:
  3, 6, 9, 15, 24, 35 degree flip angles (may need to be adjusted
    – look-up table dependent on TR and scanner)
  4 NEX

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