[New application of MRI by using echo planar imaging]

Abstract

EPI (Echo Planar Imaging) can provide human images with an acquisition time of less than 100 ms. EPI has received attention as a robust method for several applications, such as functional imaging, diffusion imaging, T2 imaging, and perfusion imaging. In addition to these, a couple of new EPI applications for brain functional imaging have recently been developed. One is spin targeting perfusion imaging, EPISTAR or FAIR, and the other is high-speed spectroscopic imaging, EPSI. Spin targeting perfusion imaging can detect inflow change alone during brain activation, contrast with bold contrast imaging that includes both O2 consumption and inflow effect. EPSI reduces signal acquisition time drastically. This review describes the recent advances in this field.