Dual-Tuned 31P-1H Dual-Row Loop/Dipole 32-element Transceiver Array for Human Brain Spectroscopy at 9.4T

Abstract

Purpose The goal of this work is to develop and evaluate a single-layer tight-fit 32-element double-tuned loop/dipole transceiver (TxRx) array for human brain 31P MRS at 9.4T, achieving reasonable transmit and receive performance and full-brain coverage at both frequencies. Methods First, we developed numerical models of dual-row TxRx arrays for 31P (loop array) and 1H (coaxial-end folded-end dipole array) frequencies at 9.4T. Next, a multi-tissue voxel model was used to simulate Tx-performance of the arrays and define optimal CP-mode excitation. Following this, the proposed array performance was evaluated by MR measurements both on a phantom and a healthy volunteer. Finally, we compared the proposed array to a previously reported dual-tuned single-row loop-based TxRx array. Results The developed 32-element double-tuned array demonstrated full-brain (including the cerebellum and brain stem) imaging capabilities, reasonable SNR and transmit performance at both frequencies at 9.4T. Conclusion As a proof of concept, we developed a 32-element double-tuned UHF tight-fit TxRx human head array coil for 31P MRS with sufficient 1H performance using a combination of loop and dipole array elements. The proposed array design could also be adapted to higher fields, i.e., 10.5T, 11.7T, and 14T.