Direct comparison of gradient Fidelity and acoustic noise of the same MRI system at 3 T and 0.75 T
Hannes Dillinger, Sebastian Kozerke, Christian Guenthner
Abstract
Purpose
To analyze the difference between gradient fidelity and acoustic noise of the same MRI scanner operated at product field strength (3 T) and lower field strength (0.75 T).
Methods
Gradient modulation transfer functions (GMTFs) were measured using a four-slice 2D phase-encoded chirp-based sequence on the same scanner operated at 3 T and, following ramp-down, at 0.75 T with identical gradient specifications (40 mT/m, 200 T/m/s). Calibrated audio measurements were performed at both field strengths to correlate audio spectra with GMTFs.
Results
While eddy currents were independent of field strength, mechanical resonances were substantially decreased at lower field, resulting in a reduction of GMTF distortions by up to 95% (88% on average) at the mechanical resonances of the gradient system. Audio spectra amplitudes were reduced by up to 87% when comparing 0.75 T versus 3 T.
Conclusion
Lower static fields lead to reduced Lorentz forces on the gradient coil and, in turn, to reduced mechanical resonances, thereby improving gradient fidelity. Simultaneously, the reduction of acoustic noise may help to improve patient comfort.