Docket #: S14-092
In-Vivo Specific Absorption Rate Mapping using the Thermoacoustic Effect
Stanford researchers have proposed a new concept for direct measurement of specific absorption ratio (SAR), to be used as a safety assessment / monitoring tool for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This novel experimental method for in-vivo SAR measurement uses the thermoacoustic effect, in which ultrasound waves are emitted due to the absorption of pulsed or modulated RF/microwave energy. By detecting these ultrasound waves and reconstructing an image from them, a spatial SAR map of the patient can be produced. This provides a new capability for measurement of the spatial distribution of SAR in the human body, and directly addresses the unsolved problem of measuring local SAR in MRI.
Figure
Fig. description: MR scanner with proposed closely coupling ultrasound transducer configuration.
Stage of Research
Applications
- High-field magnetic resonance imaging
- Safety monitoring
- Optimization of SAR patterns
- Hyperthermia monitoring and hotspot steering/optimization
- Microwave cancer detection monitoring
Advantages
- Practical method for experimentally measuring SAR non-invasively, in-vivo
- Employs thermoacoustic imaging which is well understood, hence providing feasibility support to this concept
- To-date, no existing method for local SAR monitoring
Publications
- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/704,369.
- Simone Angela Winkler, Paul Picot, Michael Thornton, Brian Rutt “Conference Paper: Direct SAR Mapping by Thermoacoustic Imaging: A Feasibility Study” Proceedings International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, Milan, Italy; 05/2014
Related Links
Patents
- Published Application: 20150316626
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